Guidelines for Starting a Business

The following is a general set of guidelines for commonly asked questions- and should be used only as such. For more detailed information and requirements please consult the appropriate Town Department or State Agency.

Sell merchandise from a fixed structure:

Display a sign:

Open a food business (i.e, bed & breakfast, retail, food service) from a fixed structure:

Sell food from a mobile food unit:

Sell Liquor (i.e. restaurant, package store) from a fixed structure:

Department Telephone Numbers:

Board of Health
508-699-0103
Town Manager
508-699-0100
Building Department
508-699-0110
Conservation Commission
508-699-0125
Historical Commission
508-699-0152
Town Clerk
508-699-0142
State Hawker & Peddler License
617-727-3480
State Alcoholic Beverage Control Commission
617-727-3040


This is only a partial list of activities or businesses that may require a permit and/or license from the Commonwealth or the Town. It is your responsibility to obtain all permits and licenses before starting your business, and you should not rely solely on this list for all requirements.