Entertainment Licensing
Update: Our office is closed to the public, but we have staff working remotely. You may reach us Monday through Friday, between 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., by emailing MOCAL@boston.gov or calling 617-635-4165. Please refer to the City's Re-opening webpage for more information.
- Restaurants: Read the Board's updated advisory regarding restaurant capacity limits, bar seating, and ancillary activities.
- Entertainment license renewal fees: Live entertainment fees for 2021 entertainment renewal applications have been automatically waived. Licensees who are not permitted until Phase 4 may email Entertainment2021@boston.gov to request a fee waiver of the non-live entertainment. Other licensees who are permitted to open before Phase 4 may email Entertainment2021@boston.gov to request a fee reduction for the 3 months when there was a state-mandated closure. These requests will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Licensees should submit the online renewal applications without the payment. Licensing staff will give further instructions regarding the fee waiver requests and payment.
- Entertainment license renewals begin Monday, October 19, 2020, until Monday, December 14, 2020. The deadline has been extended until January 31, 2021 with no late fee penalty. Renewal instructions have been mailed out and licensees may renew online. Read more on the entertainment renewal process.
Contact
If you need help with filing a consumer complaint or information on your consumer rights, contact the Consumer Affairs Office.
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.
Hearings and meetings
Hearings and meetingsThere are no upcoming events available at this time.
