The following is a general set of guidelines for commonly asked questions -- it should only be used as such. For more detailed information, it will be necessary to consult with the appropriate Town department(s). These guidelines encompass only local licensing procedures; they do not attempt to explain any licensing procedures which may be required by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts or any other entity. In addition, prospective licensees are responsible for ensuring that all required licenses/permits are obtained.
1. Where do I get a beach driving permit?
For driving on beaches controlled by the Town, you need to purchase a Beach Driving Permit from the Police Department. For driving to Great Point, a permit must be purchased from the Trustees of Reservation at the Wauwinet gate house.
2. What licenses/permits do I need to start business?
The answer depends on what kind of business you are interested in starting. Here are some general guidelines if you want to:
Sell merchandise from a fixed structure.
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Make sure your location is properly zoned for this activity (see Building Department). |
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Unless you are exempted under MGL Ch. 101 s. 2, you must obtain a transient vendor's license (Town Clerk's office). |
Conduct business under a different name than your own.
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Unless you are exempted under MGL Ch. I 1 0 s. 6, you must file a business certificate (Town Clerk's office). |
Display a sign.
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Obtain approval for any sign. (Visit the Historic District Commission). |
Open a food service business from a fixed structure.
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Make sure your location is properly zoned for this activity (Building Department). |
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Obtain a certificate of inspection (Building Department). |
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Obtain a food service permit (commercial/residential kitchen permit may also be required - see Health Department). |
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Obtain a common victualer's license (Board of Selectmen's office). |
Sell liquor from a fixed structure (restaurant or package store).
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Make sure your location is properly zoned for this activity (Building Department). |
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Obtain a Certificate of Inspection (Building Department). |
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Obtain a food service permit, if applicable (Health Department). |
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Obtain a Liquor License (Board of Selectmen's office). |
Sell food on public beaches.
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See the Park & Recreation Commission for information on bidding for concessions. |
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Obtain a food service permit (Board of Health). |
Sell food from a mobile food unit.
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Obtain a recommendation from the Park & Recreation Commission. |
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Obtain a mobile food service permit (Health Department). |
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Obtain a mobile food unit license (Board of Selectmen's office). |
Sell merchandise or food outside on a public street or sidewalk.
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This activity is not permitted by Town bylaw, with two exceptions: the sale of locally grown produce and locally caught fish. A permit must be obtained (Board of Health and Board of Selectmen's office). |
Open a guesthouse.
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Obtain either an inn holder or lodging house permit (Health Department). |
Offer a public entertainment from a fixed structure.
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Obtain an entertainment license (Board of Selectmen's office). |
Sell a service/or rent merchandise.
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Depends on specific type of activity. (Town Clerk's office may be able to offer referral to the appropriate department). |
3. What permits are required to build / alter / move / demolish a structure?
A number of different departments may be involved depending on the particular circumstances; these include:
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Building Department |
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Conservation Commission |
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Health Department |
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Historic District Commission |
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Planning Board |
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Zoning Board of Appeals |
Please see the individual departments if you have questions.
4. When do I need a non-commercial shellfish permit?
Anyone over the age of fourteen taking shellfish must have a permit (Marine Department).
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