Do you want to open a business in the City of Cambridge, Massachusetts?
The first item that is critical to verify is if you will be able to obtain any type of financial assistance to aid in beginning your business venture in Cambridge, Massachusetts. The Cambridge Economic Development Department offers not only information regarding what kind of loans and grants may be available, they also offer guidance for your specific business. They can be reached at (617) 349-4600, if you prefer to correspond via email estellaj@cambridgema.gov.
What are the available Cambridge business licenses and permits?
Currently, the Cambridge business licenses and permits are:
- Special Farmer Winery License
- New Alcohol License
- Alcohol License Renewal
- Alcohol License Transfer
- Antique License
- Common Victualer License
- Entertainment License
- Garage Sale Permit
- Flammable License
- Innholder License
- Livery License
- Jitney License
- Second-hand License
- Charity Wine License
- Stockholder License
- Auctioneer’s License
- Vendor or Peddler License
- Carnival or Festival License
- Taxicab License
Where will you get an application for your Cambridge business license?
You may receive any of the aforementioned list of business licenses directly at the City of Cambridge’s website at http://www.cambridgema.gov/license/licenseapplicationforms.aspx. The form cannot be remitted online, you may fax it back at (617) 349-4669 mail it or submit it in person:
City of Cambridge
Licenses
344 Broadway
Cambridge, MA 02139
What about Cambridge zoning?
Every single business owner must, without question, have their property verified by the Cambridge Community Development Department to ensure that the location satisfactorily meets all safety criteria set forth by the Cambridge City Ordinances. Please contact the Community Development Department at (617) 349-4600.
City of Cambridge
Community Development
344 Broadway
Cambridge, MA 02139
Phone: (617) 349-4600
Fax: (617) 349-4669
Do you plan to operate a Cambridge business from home?
Fortunately, it is no more complicated to obtain permission to operate your business from home than it is to operate your business in a commercial atmosphere. If your business type or activity is not listed in the current business licenses then chances are, you will not have to receive a business license. However, all business owners, regardless of the prerequisite to obtain a business license are mandated to have their prospective business location verified with the City of Cambridge. Please contact the Community Development Department at (617) 349-4600.
Will you need additional Cambridge permits?
It is unlikely, however, it is still recommended that you contact the City of Cambridge to verify if any of their business requirements have an addendums as they may change their requirements at their discretion.
How long can you expect to wait for your Cambridge business license?
If you have done all the proper work, secured permits and approvals and have gone through the proper avenues, your business license could be issued as soon as 5 business days. However, if any paperwork is incomplete or if there are other issues that need to be resolved, you could have to wait until they are solved.
What is the cost for a Cambridge business license?
For most Cambridge business licenses, the fee is approximately $55 annually. In general, the fees range from $25-$250. If you would like an estimate so that you may know what fees and costs to expect, you may call the City of Cambridge at (617) 349-6140. Fees may be updated at any time, this is why it is crucial to speak directly with a representative from the City of Cambridge for specific details.
Whom should you contact for more information?
For additional information, questions or concerns, you can visit the City of Cambridge Business License Department at:
City of Cambridge
Licenses
831 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge, MA 02139-3068
They can be reached via telephone at (617) 349-6140, and for useful information, go to the City of Cambridge’s website at http://www.cambridgema.gov/license/licenseapplicationforms.aspx. If you wish to correspond with the City of Cambridge through email license@Cambridgema.gov. Please also take note of the hours of operation as they differ:
Monday: 8:30am to 8:00pm
Tuesday through Thursday: 8:30am to 5:00pm
Friday: 8:00am to 12:00pm
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