Entertainment Licensing
We license and regulate entertainment activities in Boston.
- For questions regarding Entertainment, please email MOCAL@boston.gov.
- Stay updated: Join the Small Business Conference call every Tuesday at 3 p.m. on Zoom.
- 2023 Entertainment License: Entertainment renewals for the 2023 license will occur during the month of November. Please obtain valid Inspection Certificates, Place of Assembly permits, and your 2022/2021 Annual Report. They are required for the renewal application.
Consumer Affairs
If you need help with filing a consumer complaint or information on your consumer rights, contact the Consumer Affairs Office.
Licensing BoardIf you would like to apply for a Common Victualler or Alcohol license, contact the Licensing Board.
Contact
-
1 City Hall Square, Room 809
Boston, MA 02201 -
Office hoursMonday through Friday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. -
About Entertainment Licensing
We license and regulate entertainment activities in Boston. We maintain safety and order in Boston's restaurants and nightclubs through the licensing and monitoring of entertainment activities. Find out more about our work.
2022 Renewals
If your licensed premise has any seats, the Inspectional Services Department (ISD) is requiring all licensees to get a valid Inspection Certificate. Invoices are mailed and emailed for the building permits two months before the expiration date.
If you need an invoice or to schedule an inspection, please contact your building inspector. There is a list online of all the inspectors' contact information, including phone and email. You may refer to this document as well for the most updated information. The best time to schedule an appointment for inspection is at 1010 Mass. Avenue (5th floor) at 8 - 9 a.m. and 3 - 4 p.m. when the inspectors are in the office.
| License Type (Click for instructions) | Renewal Period | Online Renewal Form | Contact Email |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entertainment | November 1 - December 12, 2021 ($50 per month late fee) | Entertainment@boston.gov (For renewals only). Other questions, please email MOCAL@boston.gov | |
| Common Victualler (No Alcohol) | September 6, 2021 - October 31, 2021 (Late fee: Double current bill) | RenewCV@boston.gov |
Licensing help
We process new applications and renewals, inspect premises, and hold licensing hearings.
We have information to help businesses that play music for the public.
Get a new license, make a renewal, or change an existing license.
Get a new license, make a renewal, or change an existing license.
You need a license to host an event with carnival games or rides.
You need a license to host a one-time event like a carnival or festival.
To run a dance school in the City, you need to have a license.
You need a license to sell products or collect money for charity.
The City does not require permits for street performers in public areas.
A list of common license fees for various events.
Special outdoor event help
Forms and applications
FormsHearing videos and materials
- January 11, 2022
- January 24, 2022
- January 31, 2022
- February 14, 2022
- March 2, 2022 (Fenway Concerts)
- Concert Documents (ex. Security, Transportation Management, Communications, Traffic Enforcement, etc.)
- March 4, 2022 (Applications)
- March 10, 2022 (Violations)
