Boston Licensing Board – Boston, MA

Boston Licensing Board

The Boston Licensing Board is the municipal body responsible for regulating the sale of food and alcoholic beverages within the City of Boston. Located in Boston City Hall, the Board issues and oversees licenses for restaurants, nightclubs, hotels, and dormitories. Its primary mission is to ensure public safety and order by enforcing city and state regulations regarding the operation of these establishments. The Board holds regular hearings to review applications for new licenses, transfers, and disciplinary actions regarding license violations.

Regulated Activities

• Alcohol Licenses: Issues various classes of liquor licenses, including 7-day all-alcohol, beer and wine, and one-day special event permits.
• Common Victualler: Required for any business preparing and serving food to the public.
• Lodging & Dormitories: Licenses hotels, inns, and university dormitories to ensure compliance with safety standards.
• Entertainment: Works in conjunction with the Mayor’s Office of Consumer Affairs and Licensing to regulate entertainment in licensed premises.

Hearings and Meetings

The Board typically conducts hearings three days a week: violation hearings on Tuesdays, transactional hearings on Wednesdays, and voting hearings on Thursdays. These meetings are open to the public. Visitors to the office at City Hall must pass through security screening. The Board also hosts virtual office hours to assist business owners with the application process.