Licensing Board

• Restaurant safety standards: On September 22, the state issued updates to the safety standards for restaurants. On September 23, Mayor Walsh announced how these updates will be put in place for indoor and outdoor dining in Boston. These updated safety standards go into effect on September 28. Read the safety standards advisory.
• Common Victualler (no alcohol) renewals: Renewal applications begin online on Monday, September 7, 2020. Read the instructions. If you have any questions, please email RenewCV2021@boston.gov. Join us on Zoom for our virtual office hours, Monday - Friday, from 11 a.m. - 12 p.m. and 2 - 3 p.m. Join our Zoom room (Passcode 123456).
• Temporary outdoor dining: We created an online application if you would like to temporarily extend your licensed premise onto outdoor space.  The outdoor program will end on December 1, 2020 (or weather permitting). To learn more, visit our outdoor dining website. Heaters may be permitted on temporary outdoor extensions. Licensees should apply for a "Temporary Heater Permit" from Boston Fire. Fees will be waived. Read the advisory regarding heaters.

View all COVID-19 advisories

We grant and regulate various types of alcohol and food licenses for restaurants, nightclubs, and other establishments in Boston. We also hold hearings on violations and license applications. Learn more about the Licensing Board, and its members.