Division of Standards – Boston, MA

About the Division of Standards

The Division of Standards (DOS) is a regulatory agency under the Massachusetts Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation. Located at 1 Federal Street, the Division acts as the Commonwealth’s primary authority on weights and measures. Its work ensures fairness in the marketplace by enforcing accuracy requirements for weighing and measuring devices used in the sale of food, fuels, and other products.

Licensing and Regulation

The DOS issues various statutory licenses and oversees specific business practices:

• Professional Licensing: The Division licenses auctioneers, hawkers and peddlers, transient vendors, and promoters.
• Automotive: It registers auto damage repair shops and regulates motor fuel and oil retailers.
• Pricing Accuracy: The agency enforces item pricing laws and inspects scanner systems in retail stores to prevent consumer overcharges.
• Device Certification: Testing and approving coin-operated devices and other commercial weighing equipment.

Visitor Information

The Division’s office is situated in the Financial District. As this is a secure office tower, visitors must present valid photo identification at the lobby security desk to gain access to the elevators.

• Office Hours: The office is open Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
• Services: While many applications can be processed online, the office handles specific inquiries and complaints regarding weights and measures violations.