Handyman Business Permit Requirements in Boston, MA

Complete permit and license guide for starting a handyman business in Boston, Suffolk County, Massachusetts.

$200 -- $700 2–5 weeks for HIC registration and business certificate 4 requirements

Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. Last verified: .

Boston / Suffolk County Requirements

1 requirement
1

Boston Business Certificate

Sole proprietors and partnerships doing business in Boston under a trade name (DBA) must file a Business Certificate with the Boston City Clerk. This is required if you use any name other than your own legal name. Valid for 4 years.

$65Same day to 1 week
Official government source

Massachusetts State Requirements

2 requirements
1

Massachusetts Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) Registration

Any contractor or subcontractor who performs home improvement work on 1–4 family owner-occupied residential properties in Massachusetts must register as a Home Improvement Contractor with the Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation (OCABR). This applies to handymen doing regular home improvement work. Registration is required statewide — there is no dollar-amount exemption. Initial fee: $150. The registration must be renewed every 2 years for $100.

$150 (initial) + $100-$500 Guaranty Fund contribution2–4 weeks
Official government source
2

Massachusetts Construction Supervisor License (CSL) — if pulling permits

To pull building permits for structural work on 1–2 family homes in Massachusetts, a Construction Supervisor License is required. Handymen performing non-structural repairs do not need this. If you plan to supervise structural work (framing, roofing, etc.), you need a CSL. Requires passing an exam and having relevant experience.

$150 (exam) + $150 (license fee)4–8 weeks
Official government source

Federal Requirements

1 requirement
1

EIN (Employer Identification Number)

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

FreeImmediate (online application)
Official government source

Official Sources

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