Barber Shop Permit Requirements in Boston, MA

Complete permit and license guide for starting a barber shop in Boston, Suffolk County, Massachusetts.

Updated 2026-02-15 6 stops $350–$1,500 est. 4–9 weeks to obtain all licenses and permits
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Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. This guide was compiled from public and official sources (last updated ) and has not yet been independently source-verified — confirm each requirement before acting on it.

Federal — start here

1 stop

  1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

    Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC/corporation. Free from the IRS.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online application)

State of Massachusetts

3 stops

  1. Massachusetts Board of Cosmetology and Barbering — Barber Shop License

    All barber shops in Massachusetts must be licensed by the Massachusetts Board of Cosmetology and Barbering (under the Division of Professional Licensure). The barber shop establishment license requires an application, proof of location, and an on-site inspection to verify compliance with 240 CMR (Board of Barbering regulations).

    Official government source

    $100 application fee (approximately)4–8 weeks (includes application review and on-site inspection)

  2. Individual Barber License (per barber)

    Every barber working in the shop must hold a valid Massachusetts Barber License issued by the Board of Cosmetology and Barbering. This requires 1,000 hours of education at an approved barber school, plus written and practical exams.

    Official government source

    $51 application fee per barber4–8 weeks (after completing required education and passing exams)

  3. Massachusetts Sales Tax Registration

    Required for selling retail products in your barber shop. Register with the Massachusetts Department of Revenue. The Massachusetts state sales tax rate is 6.25%.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online application)

City of Boston / Suffolk County

2 stops

  1. City of Boston — Certificate of Registration (Business Certificate / DBA)

    Businesses operating under a trade name in Boston must file a Business Certificate (DBA) with the Boston City Clerk. Valid for 4 years.

    Official government source

    $65Same day (in person at City Hall) to 1 week

  2. City of Boston Inspectional Services — Certificate of Occupancy

    Barber shops must obtain a Certificate of Occupancy from Boston Inspectional Services confirming the space is approved for personal services use and meets building and fire codes.

    Official government source

    $100–$600 (varies by scope of work)2–6 weeks

Terminus

Open for business — est. $350–$1,500 · 4–9 weeks to obtain all licenses and permits

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Official Sources

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