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How to Open a Restaurant in Boston

Opening a restaurant is exciting. It’s also a lot of work.

Between zoning, construction permits, licenses, and health inspections, there are a dozen or more things to get in order before you can open your doors. We've designed this guide to make that process as clear as possible.

Our guide will be most useful for new restaurants, or restaurants planning to do renovations or construction work. It's not a strict step-by-step, because your path will depend on your specific space and business. But it will help you plan ahead and avoid surprises.

Get started

A flow chart that shows the process of opening a restaurant in Boston. The chart includes steps for Get Ready, Choose Location, Construct and Renovate, Prepare to Serve Food, Entertainment, Open, and Renewals.

Inside the Guide

Inside the Guide
Get Ready

Start here. Connect with free City resources and learn who you'll work with and what to expect.
Choose a Location

Before you sign a lease, confirm your space is legally approved for a restaurant and understand zoning.
Construction and Renovation

Get a plan review and permits before you begin construction or renovation to ensure you comply with City code.
Prepare to Serve Food and Drink

Understand the core permits and certifications every restaurant needs to legally open to the public.
Entertainment and Guest Experience

Secure the optional permits you need to offer outdoor dining, entertainment, and more.
Renewals

Know what to renew, how often, and which department to contact before a missed deadline costs you.

Free Support for Small Businesses

The City’s Neighborhood Business Managers can help with understanding zoning, permitting and licensing, developing a business plan, choosing a location, and more.

Connect

City of Boston Departments

You'll work with several City departments on your way to opening day. Here's a quick look at who they are and what they handle.

Boston Fire Department (BFD)

Issues fire-related permits and does fire safety inspections.
Boston Inspectional Services Department (ISD)

Reviews building plans, issues permits, and does inspections.
Boston Licensing Board (BLB)

Grants and regulates alcohol and food licenses for restaurants, nightclubs, and other establishments.
Boston Planning Department (BPD)

Manages zoning and land-use rules.
City Clerk

Issues your business certificate.
Entertainment Licensing

Licenses and regulates entertainment activities.
Public Works

Keeps Boston’s streets, sidewalks, and bridges safe, clean, and attractive. Involved in permits for sidewalk cafes and...
Office of Small Business

Provides tools and guidance to help you successfully start, grow, and build a business in Boston.
Transportation Department

Issues valet parking permits for businesses. Keeps Boston's streets safe, inclusive, and vibrant.
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