Plumbing Contractor Permit Requirements in Boston, MA

1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

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

   Official government source

   Free·Immediate (online application)

   Free

   Immediate (online application)

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.

   Official government source

   $150 application fee + $100 exam fee; $100/year renewal·6–12 weeks

   $150 application fee + $100 exam fee; $100/year renewal

   6–12 weeks

2. Massachusetts Liability Insurance

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

   Official government source

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

   $800–$2,000/year (varies by coverage and payroll)

   1–5 days to obtain

3. Massachusetts Business Entity Registration

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

   Official government source

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

   $500 (LLC filing fee)

   3–5 business days (online filing)

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.

   Official government source

   $65 (valid for 4 years)·Same day (in person at Boston City Hall)

   $65 (valid for 4 years)

   Same day (in person at Boston City Hall)

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.

   Official government source

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

   No separate registration fee; permit fees vary by job scope ($50–$500+)

   1–3 days for registration

Official Sources

• Massachusetts Board of State Examiners of Plumbers and Gas Fitters
• City of Boston Inspectional Services Department

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