Catering Business Permit Requirements in Boston, MA
Complete permit and license guide for starting a catering business in Boston, Suffolk County, Massachusetts.
Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. Last verified: .
Boston / Suffolk County Requirements
4 requirementsBoston Inspectional Services Department — Food Establishment Permit
All catering businesses operating from a fixed location in Boston must obtain a Food Establishment Permit from the Boston Inspectional Services Department (ISD). The permit requires a pre-operational inspection of the commissary or kitchen facility and must be renewed annually.
Boston Public Health Commission — Catering Permit
Caterers in Boston must obtain approval from the Boston Public Health Commission (BPHC). This includes review of food handling procedures, commissary arrangements, and food safety protocols. The BPHC coordinates with ISD for inspections.
City of Boston — Certificate of Occupancy (for commissary space)
If operating from a commercial kitchen space in Boston, a Certificate of Occupancy from ISD is required confirming the space is approved for food service use. Required before the food establishment permit is issued.
Boston Catering Event Permit (Temporary Food Event)
For each catered event held at a venue in Boston, a Temporary Food Service Permit may be required from ISD. Required for events serving food to the public or at large private gatherings. Apply at least 14 days before the event.
Massachusetts State Requirements
3 requirementsMassachusetts Department of Public Health — Food Service Establishment Permit
Under Massachusetts 105 CMR 590.000, all food service establishments including catering commissaries must be permitted. In Boston, ISD administers this on behalf of the state. If operating in other MA jurisdictions, apply directly with the local board of health.
Massachusetts Sales Tax Registration
Caterers must register with the Massachusetts Department of Revenue to collect and remit sales tax on taxable services. In Massachusetts, catering services are generally subject to the 6.25% sales tax. Register online through MassTaxConnect.
Massachusetts Alcohol Catering License (if serving alcohol)
To serve alcohol at catered events, a caterer must hold a Caterer's License issued by the Massachusetts Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission (ABCC). The license must be renewed annually and requires proof of a food service permit.
Federal Requirements
1 requirementEIN (Employer Identification Number)
Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC or corporation. Obtained free from the IRS. Also needed for business bank accounts and payroll tax filings.
Official Sources
Related Guides
Other business types in Boston, MA
Catering Business in other cities
- Catering Business Permit Requirements in Aberdeen, SD
- Catering Business Permit Requirements in Albuquerque, NM
- Catering Business Permit Requirements in Anchorage, AK
- Catering Business Permit Requirements in Annapolis, MD
- Catering Business Permit Requirements in Atlanta, GA
- Catering Business Permit Requirements in Austin, TX