One-Time Entertainment License
A One-Time Entertainment License covers a single event or a limited run of dates. It applies to indoor and outdoor events, whether free or ticketed, hosted by businesses, nonprofits, community groups, or individuals.
You don’t need an Annual Entertainment License for a one-off event. If you already have an annual entertainment license and you want to offer entertainment at a specific event that isn’t covered by that license, you need a One-Time Entertainment License for that event.
Submit your application at least two weeks before the event. Licenses are issued the week before the event date.
Questions? Contact Entertainment Licensing. We’re happy to answer any questions and walk you through the process step-by-step.
Who Can Apply
Any person or organization can apply for a One-Time Entertainment License. This includes businesses, restaurants, hotels, nonprofits, community groups, religious organizations, and individuals hosting block parties or neighborhood events.
You do not need to hold an annual entertainment license to apply.
Entertainment Licensing does not issue licenses for entertainment on private residential property. Private residential parties and condominium events for residents only do not need a license.
Before You Apply
Make sure you have no outstanding bills with the City of Boston before you submit your application.
Which License Do You Need?
For most indoor events, you only need this One-Time Entertainment License.
For outdoor events, it depends on the size, event details, and location of your event.
- Small outdoor events. Use the One-Time Entertainment License application if your event is a small outdoor event at a venue that already holds an annual entertainment license. For example, a one-day event on a restaurant or bar patio with no tents, generators, or parking lot use.
- Large outdoor events. If your outdoor event is larger, at an unlicensed space, or requires other City permits, you must file a Public Event Permit application instead of a One-Time Entertainment License application. If you fill out a Public Event Application, you can list your entertainment right on that form.
Not sure which applies to your event? Email Entertainment Licensing at MOCAL@boston.gov before you apply.
Required Documents
To ensure your license is approved on time, make sure you have these two things before submitting:
- Completed One-Time Entertainment License application
- Signature from the Boston Police District Captain for your neighborhood
- Building Inspection Certificate for the venue
- Place of Assembly Permit (if the venue holds more than 49 people)
Additional documents, permits, or licenses may be required depending on your event and activities. These can include:
- Certificate of Liability Insurance
- Parks permit (for events in City parks)
- Electrical permit (for generators)
- Building permit (for tents or stages)
- Health permit (for food service)
- Alcohol license (for alcohol service)
- Open-burning cooking permit (for grills or open flames)
- Letter or contract from the property owner
Entertainment Licensing will let you know if they need more documents after they review your application.
Fees
One-Time Entertainment License fees are based on how many people your venue holds.
- Under 250 people: $25
- 250–500 people: $50
- 501–1,000 people: $75
- 1,001–2,000 people: $100
- More than 2,000 people: $200
Mixed Martial Arts events have a separate fee schedule. Contact Entertainment Licensing for details.
How to Pay
Online payments are the fastest and easiest way to pay Entertainment Division fees. Once you’ve paid, we’ll email the license to you.
- Online. You can pay online by credit card, debit card, or check. We will send you instructions and a payment link via email.
- By mail: Check payable to “City of Boston” (include your license name and number in the memo).
- In person: Cash, by appointment only at window M-8 at City Hall, or with a credit card or check in person in room 809.
There is a 2.75% fee for credit and debit card transactions. There is no fee for electronic check payments. Returned payments are charged a $25 fee in addition to the license fee.
Nonprofit Fee Waiver
Certified 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations can apply to have the fee waived or reduced. Submit a completed waiver form and proof of nonprofit status along with your application.
How to Apply
Submit your application package at least 14 days before your event.
Apply by email using our downloadable form, or drop it off at City Hall, Room 809. Email is faster.
3-4 weeks before your event
Download and complete the One-Time Entertainment License application.
Before moving to the next step, make sure you have the required supporting documents ready based on your venue type. Incomplete applications may be denied, so ensure all fields and attachments are ready before heading to Step 2.
If you’re planning an outdoor event that requires a Public Event application, you don’t need to complete the One-Time Entertainment License application. Learn more about public events.
2 to 3 weeks before your event
Before you can submit your application to the Entertainment Division, you must get it signed by the Police District Captain where the event takes place.
- Find your local precinct by entering your event address on the My Neighborhood Tool and clicking the Public Safety icon.
- Drop off your application at that precinct’s front desk. Some precincts can provide a digital signature over email. Get in touch with your precinct to find out their preferred process.
- Plan for 3 to 5 business days for the Captain to review and sign your form. Precinct staff will call or email you when it is ready to pick up.
Because precincts require 3 to 5 business days for review, we recommend completing this step at least 3 weeks before your event date.
At least 14 days before your event
Email your signed application form and all supporting documents to MOCAL@boston.gov for the fastest processing. A staff member will email you to confirm we have received your application.
A staff member will email you the invoice for your entertainment application. Once you've paid, they will email you a copy of the entertainment license.
After Approval
Post your license or keep it immediately on hand during the event. Boston Police or other City staff may ask to see it.
Cancellations
If your event is canceled after your license is issued, you must notify Entertainment Licensing by email before your event date to request a refund.
