Entertainment Licensing
We license and regulate entertainment activities in Boston.
LICENSING BOARD updates:
- Read the Advisory regarding the Closed Captioning Ordinance dated March 2, 2023, regarding licensed establishments that utilize public facing televisions.
- Read the Advisory issued on March 17, 2023, regarding drink spiking in nightlife establishments. This is an update to the previously issued Advisory from November 22, 2021.
- For questions regarding Entertainment, please email MOCAL@boston.gov.
Consumer Affairs
If you need help with filing a consumer complaint or information on your consumer rights, contact the Consumer Affairs Office.
Licensing Board
If you would like to apply for a Common Victualler or Alcohol license, contact the Licensing Board.
Contact
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1 City Hall Square, Room 809
Boston, MA 02201 -
Office hoursMonday through Friday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
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About Entertainment Licensing
We license and regulate entertainment activities in Boston. We maintain safety and order in Boston's restaurants and nightclubs through the licensing and monitoring of entertainment activities. Find out more about our work.
Licensing help
We process new applications and renewals, inspect premises, and hold licensing hearings.
We have information to help businesses that play music for the public.
Get a new license, make a renewal, or change an existing license.
Get a new license, make a renewal, or change an existing license.
You need a license to host an event with carnival games or rides.
You need a license to host a one-time event like a carnival or festival.
To run a dance school in the City, you need to have a license.
You need a license to sell products or collect money for charity.
The City does not require permits for street performers in public areas.
A list of common license fees for various events.
Special outdoor event help
Forms and applications
FormsHearing videos and materials
- January 11, 2022
- January 24, 2022
- January 31, 2022
- February 14, 2022
- March 2, 2022 (Fenway Concerts)
- Concert Documents (ex. Security, Transportation Management, Communications, Traffic Enforcement, etc.)
- March 4, 2022 (Applications)
- March 10, 2022 (Violations)
- May 19, 2022 (Hearing)
- June 16, 2022 (Hearing)
- June 27, 2022 (Hearing)
- August 22, 2022 (Hearing)
- September 8, 2022 (Hearings)
- September 8, 2022 (Hearings)
- September 15, 2022 (Hearing)
- September 19, 2022 (Hearing)
- October 3, 2022 (Hearing)
- October 18, 2022 (Hearing)
- November 3, 2022
- November 7 2022 (Hearing)
- November 9, 2022 (Hearing)
- November 14, 2022 (Hearing)
- December 8, 2022 (Hearing)