Annual Entertainment License (Non-Live and Live): Boston restaurant guide

Boston Office of Consumer Affairs & Licensing — Entertainment Licensing

What it is

Non-Live covers piped-in music, radio, jukeboxes, TVs, dart boards and ping pong. Live covers bands, singers, DJs, karaoke, trivia, dancers and theater.

When a restaurant needs it

Any music or TVs (non-live) or any performers/DJ/dancing (live).

How to apply

Email the completed annual application and documents to MOCAL@boston.gov or bring them to City Hall, Room 809. Live entertainment generally requires a hearing.

Documents you’ll need

Annual Live or Non-Live Entertainment Application
Inspection Certificate (if capacity over 49 or alcohol)
Certificate of Occupancy (for live, showing the location is zoned for live entertainment)
Place of Assembly Permit (if applicable)
Business Certificate
CV or alcohol license
Articles of Organization
Floor plan and lease/deed

Fee

$35 application fee. Non-Live I $80, Non-Live II $120 (adds jukebox, up to 5 TVs), Non-Live III $180; widescreen TVs over 27 inches $180 each. Live I (up to 3 performers) $400; Live II (DJ/dancing/more performers) $800–$2,000 by capacity; Live III $1,200–$2,400. Hearing $100.

Processing time

Non-Live: about 3–4 weeks. Live: a public hearing is required, typically scheduled 4–6 weeks after you file

Renewal

Annually in November; not transferable

Who files

The license holder or their attorney files; you must have no outstanding City bills.

Good to know

Zoning treats live entertainment before and after 10:30 p.m. differently. Check your zoning before you promise late shows.

Official source

Boston — entertainment license fees · Boston — annual live entertainment license

Get your personalized Boston permit plan

Answer a few questions about your space and get every permit in order, with a timeline, a cost range, walkthroughs, and every application filled in for you to sign with Open.

Build my free plan

Last reviewed 2026-10-06. Guidance only, not legal advice.