city_hall

Official websites use .boston.gov

A .boston.gov website belongs to an official government organization in the City of Boston.

lock

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS

A lock or https:// means you've safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

Entertainment Licensing

We license and regulate entertainment activities in Boston. 

LICENSING DIVISION updates:
  • 2025 License Renewals will be mailed directly to the licensed premises at the end of October. If you do not receive a renewal, please email us at Entertainment@boston.gov for a copy.
  • Check out our new video on the One-Time Entertainment application process here.
  • Read the Advisory regarding the Closed Captioning Ordinance dated March 2, 2023, regarding licensed establishments that utilize public facing televisions.
  • For questions regarding Entertainment, please email MOCAL@boston.gov.

Consumer Affairs

If you need help with filing a consumer complaint or information on your consumer rights, contact the Consumer Affairs Office.

Licensing Board

If 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
  • icon-time
    Office hours
    Monday 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.

  • Licensing Dataset

    View a list of our licensed premises:

    Licensing Dataset

Upcoming Hearing Dates

Upcoming Hearing Dates
  • April 30, 2024
  • May 2, 2024
  • May 16, 2024
  • June 6, 2024
  • June 27, 2024
  • August 1, 2024
  • August 27, 2024
  • September 17, 2024
  • October 3, 2024
  • October 22, 2024
  • November 7, 2024
  • December 12, 2024
  • December 17, 2024
Contact
  • 1 City Hall Square, Room 809
    Boston, MA 02201
  • icon-time
    Office hours
    Monday 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.

  • Licensing Dataset

    View a list of our licensed premises:

    Licensing Dataset

Back to top