Permits for a Retail Store in Cambridge, Massachusetts

Authorizes the sale of alcoholic beverages for off-premises consumption. Required for liquor stores, wine shops, and any retail sale of packaged alcohol. Subject to quota limits per municipality.

Massachusetts requires any person or entity conducting business under a name other than their legal name to file a Business Certificate (DBA) with the city or town clerk. Filing is required within 15 days of commencing business.

Massachusetts employers must register with the Department of Unemployment Assistance (DUA) and pay state unemployment insurance tax. New employer rate is approximately 1.45%–14.37% depending on industry. Taxable wage base is $15,000 per employee.

Massachusetts requires all employers to carry workers' compensation insurance for their employees. No minimum employee threshold — even one employee triggers the requirement. Coverage purchased from private insurers or the state Workers' Compensation Rating and Inspection Bureau.

Required before any building can be occupied for commercial use. Verifies zoning compliance, building code compliance, and that all fire, plumbing, and electrical inspections have passed. Issued by the local building department.

All bars, restaurants, and public-facing establishments must pass fire safety inspections. Inspections verify fire suppression systems, exit routes, emergency lighting, fire extinguishers, and kitchen hood systems. Required before opening and periodically thereafter under 527 CMR.

Required by most Massachusetts municipalities before installing exterior business signage. Local zoning bylaws regulate sign size, type, height, illumination, and placement.

Required for all businesses making retail sales of tangible personal property or taxable services. Massachusetts sales tax rate is 6.25%. Registration is free through MassTaxConnect. Meals tax of 6.25% applies to restaurant sales, with an optional additional 0.75% local option meals tax.

All Massachusetts employers must register to withhold state income tax from employee wages. Registration completed through MassTaxConnect.

Verifies that the proposed business use is permitted in the applicable zoning district. Required before obtaining a building permit or Certificate of Occupancy. Governed by MGL c.40A.