DoorWorthy

Who needs a local licensing: no state business license in Massachusetts?

Issued by Your city or town’s licensing authority (select board, city council or a licensing board or commission), at step 2 of 6 in the opening sequence: register for tax.

Every kind of business in Massachusetts

The Massachusetts table lists this for every kind of business.

Massachusetts issues no general business license and most towns have no mercantile license either. The city or town is still the licensing authority for the trade-specific licenses: the common victualler license for anywhere that serves food at tables, liquor, lodging, entertainment, kennels and the Sunday and holiday openings. Boston runs these through its Licensing Board and Inspectional Services Department. Ask the clerk before signing the lease.

Checked Oct 21, 2026 against the agency’s page.

Step 2 of 6: Register for tax

  1. Set up the business
  2. Register for tax
  3. Approve the space
  4. Get the permits for your kind of business
  5. Alcohol permits
  6. Before the first hire

Issued by Your city or town’s licensing authority (select board, city council or a licensing board or commission).

Sources and dates

Massachusetts General Laws c. 140 (local licenses); city licensing pages (Cambridge License Commission, Boston Licensing Board). Checked against the agency’s page on the date shown; cities add their own fees.

Questions about opening here.