Boston Permitting

Learn how to register your business in Boston.

A step-by-step guide to opening a restaurant in Boston.

Before you open, you must have several permits, insurance, and a commissary agreement.

Remove and replace fixtures, plumbing, or electrical work.

You must register your rental property with the City every year.

Apply as soon as you sign your Purchase and Sale Agreement.

Plan and manage your new construction job.

Get a building permit and a site plan review for an addition or ADU.

Confirms that a building or space is safe and legally approved for its intended use.

A permit guarantees a legal parking spot.

It’s free. Your car must be registered in your name at your Boston address.

Reserve street or sidewalk space for dumpsters, fencing, or storage containers.

Meet your neighbors and build community.

All outdoor public events on public or private commercial property require a permit.

A license allows you to serve alcohol at your event. For-profit and nonprofit events follow different rules.

If you have a dog in the City, you must get a license for them.

The Boston Harbormaster approves all dock space and mooring permits.

You need permits from several departments to film in the City.