Plumbing Contractor Permit Requirements in Boston, MA

Complete permit and license guide for starting a plumbing contractor in Boston, Suffolk County, Massachusetts.

$1000 -- $3000 8–14 weeks to obtain all licenses and permits 6 requirements

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

Boston / Suffolk County Requirements

2 requirements
1

City of Boston Business Certificate

All businesses conducting business in Boston under a trade name must file a Business Certificate (DBA) with the Boston City Clerk. This applies to sole proprietors and partnerships. LLCs and corporations file with the state.

$65 (valid for 4 years)Same day (in person at Boston City Hall)
Official government source
2

City of Boston Inspectional Services — Plumber Registration

Plumbing contractors must register with the City of Boston Inspectional Services Department (ISD) before obtaining plumbing permits. The Massachusetts Licensed Plumber (either Master or Journeyman) must be on file. Boston requires a specific permit for each plumbing job.

No separate registration fee; permit fees vary by job scope ($50–$500+)1–3 days for registration
Official government source

Massachusetts State Requirements

3 requirements
1

Massachusetts Master Plumber License

Required to perform or contract for plumbing work in Massachusetts. Issued by the Massachusetts Division of Professional Licensure (DPL), Board of State Examiners of Plumbers and Gas Fitters. Applicants must have 5 years of plumbing experience (with 2 years as Journeyman), pass a state exam, and be bonded and insured.

$150 application fee + $100 exam fee; $100/year renewal6–12 weeks
Official government source
2

Massachusetts Liability Insurance

Plumbing contractors in Massachusetts must carry general liability insurance. Minimum $250,000 per occurrence is typically required by municipalities.

$800–$2,000/year (varies by coverage and payroll)1–5 days to obtain
Official government source
3

Massachusetts Business Entity Registration

LLCs and corporations must register with the Massachusetts Secretary of State Corporations Division.

$500 (LLC filing fee)3–5 business days (online filing)
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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