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:

• Make sure your location is properly zoned for the activity. See Building Department.
• Obtain a Vendor’s permit? Contact Town Manager's Office

Display a sign:

• Obtain approval from Building Department.
• You may also need permission from the Historical Commission.

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

• Make sure your location is properly zoned for the activity. See Building Department.
• Obtain a Certificate of Inspection. See Building Department.
• Obtain a Food Permit. See Board of Health.
• Obtain a Common Victualer’s License. Contact Town Manager's Office

Sell food from a mobile food unit:

• Obtain a Food Permit. See Board of Health.
• Obtain a State Hawker and Peddler license.
• At a public beach will require a permit from the Conservation Commission.

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

• Make sure your location is properly zoned for the activity. See Building Department.
• Obtain a Certificate of Inspection. See Building Department.
• Obtain a Food Permit, if applicable. See Board of Health.
• Obtain a Liquor License. Contact Town Manager's Office.

Department Telephone Numbers:

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.