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License and Permit Renewals

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.

Getting your permits and licenses is just the beginning. Most permits need to be renewed regularly to keep your restaurant operating legally. Missing a renewal deadline can result in fines, double fees, or losing your license entirely.

Restaurant Renewals

Annual—Required for All Restaurants

Permit, License, or Certification Cadence Department Notes
Common Victualler License Annual Licensing Board Hard deadline at end of October. Late renewals incur a double fee.
Food Service Health Permit Annual ISD Health Division Inspected at least once a year, usually twice. Effective Jan. 1 - Dec. 31 each year.
Certificate of Inspection Annual

ISD Building Division

Fire Department

 Required if restaurant has seats. Invoices mailed and emailed about 2 months before expiration.
Site Cleanliness License Annual ISD Required for all food establishments.

Annual—Required if Applicable

Permit, License, or Certification Cadence Department Notes
Place of Assembly Permit Annual Fire Department Required if capacity is 50 or more. 
Street Occupancy Permit Annual ISD Required if a dumpster occupies street or public right-of-way during construction.
Liquor License Annual Licensing Board Required if serving alcohol.
Live Entertainment License Annual Entertainment Licensing Required if offering live entertainment, like performances.
Non-Live Entertainment License Annual Entertainment Licensing Required if offering non-live entertainment, like TVs.
Pool Table License Annual Licensing Board Required if operating pool tables or billiards.
Sidewalk Cafe Permit Annual Department of Public Works Required for outdoor seating on public property.
Valet Parking Permit Annual Transportation Department Required for valet parking.

Multi-Year

Permit, License, or Certification Cadence Department Notes
Food Manager Certification Every 5 years Independent certifying organization Must pass an accredited exam. Verify approved providers with ISD.
Allergen Awareness Certificate Every 5 years Independent certifying organization Verify current state requirement with ISD or Mass.gov.
Business Certificate Every 4 years City Clerk Required for DBA registrations.
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