Business How-Tos
Review step-by-step information on how to apply for various permits and certifications.
General Business
Apply for a Business Certificate
Boston businesses need to get a certificate through the City Clerk’s office. You need to renew your certificate every four years.
Become an Age Friendly Business
We’re creating an environment where businesses value older adults and those with dementia by creating welcoming spaces.
Get Your Business Certified
Learn more about how to apply for certification with the City's Supplier Diversity Program.
Use the Supplier Portal
You can use our online portal to register, submit bids, and sign contracts to work on City projects.
Food and Alcohol
Apply for the 2024 Food Cart Pilot Program
This pilot simplifies the application process by adding predetermined zones where food cart vendors can choose to sell and increases assistance during the approval process.
Apply for an Alcoholic Beverage Retailer License
Alcoholic Beverages Retail License Applications in the City of Boston are processed by Boston Licensing Board ("BLB" or "Board").
Get a Common Victualler License
All establishments that prepare and serve food and drinks need a Common Victualler License. Learn how to apply for this license for your restaurant.
Get a Food Service Permit
You can apply for a permit while your business is being built, or get a permit for an existing business.
Get a Food Truck Health and Fire Permit
You need to get Health and Fire permits before you can apply for a food truck permit.
Get a Food Truck Permit
Learn about what's needed to get a food truck permit in the City of Boston.
Get a Special One-Day Alcohol License
You need to get a license to serve alcohol at an event. There are different rules depending on whether the event is for-profit or for a nonprofit.
Entertainment
Get a Dance School License
If you want to run a dance school in the City, you need to have a license.
Get a One-Time Entertainment License
You need a license to host a one-time event, like a carnival or festival.
Get a One Time Carnival License
You need a license to host an event with carnival games or amusement rides.
Get a Non-Live Entertainment License
You can get a new license, make a renewal, or change an existing license.
Other
Obtain or Renew a Tobacco Sales Permit
Before selling tobacco and nicotine delivery products, you need a Boston Public Health Commission Tobacco/Nicotine Sales Permit.
Establishing a Cannabis Business in Boston
Learn about the process involved in setting up a cannabis business in the City of Boston.
Get a Fundraising License
You need to apply for a license if you plan to sell products or collect money for charity.
