Show All Answers

1. Do I need a one-day (special) alcohol license for a party/wedding I'm hosting at my home?

If the event is private and invitation-only, you do not. However, if you will be placing a tent on your property, you may need a permit. Please contact Inspectional Services to inquire, 508-532-5500.

2. Do I need a one-day (special) alcohol license if I use a 12C licensed caterer who has an alcohol license?

You do not need a special alcohol license if you are using a 12C caterer for a private event. However, the caterer must comply with requirements under the Caterer's License. If the event is open to the public, a one-day (special) alcohol license is required.  

3. Who provides alcohol server training that is accepted in Framingham?

Alcohol Intervention Methods (A.I.M.): 508-877-0105

Server Training On Premises (S.T.O.P): 401-943-5454 or FJFaubert@Hotmail.com 

Classroom Training for Intervention Procedures (TIPS): 800-438-8477 or https://gettips.com/class/index.html

Online Training for Intervention Procedures (TIPS): 877-851-7272 or  https://www.tipsalcohol.com/massachusetts-tips-training.html?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIqoXj1OzM8gIVgo7ICh1LYwNpEAAYASAAEgIDv_D_BwE

ServSafe® - ServSafe Alcohol training, responsible alcohol management /  for MA  800-765-2122

For Package Stores Only: Beverage  Alcohol Training Program (BAT): (508)-366-1100 or http://www.masspack.org/ 

4. Do I need a license to operate a food or ice cream truck?

Click to see a Food & Ice Cream Truck Table PDF to determine whether you need a Framingham Hawker/Peddler License and a Mobile Food Service Unit Permit from the Health Department (508-532-5470) and a Hawker/Pedler License from the Com. of MA Division of Standards. For questions about the local food permit, please contact the Health Department at 508-532-5470.

5. When do I need a business certificate and where to I get one?

If you are a sole proprietor, corporation or partnership doing business under a different name, you will need a business certificate. Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 110, Section 5 

Applications must be submitted with payment to the Licensing Office, Room 203 for the following licenses before a Business Certificate will be issued. Licenses are granted after a hearing with the appropriate Licensing Authority, 

• Eat-in restaurant, requires a Common Victualer's License. - Board of License Commissioners
• Car dealer or car salvage business, requires a Class I, II or III License - Board of License Commissioners
• Inn, Hotel or Motel requires an Innholder's License - Board of License Commissioners
• Lodging House requires a Lodging House License - Board of License Commissioners
• Fortune Teller requires a Fortune Teller License - Board of License Commissioners
• Taxi Company requires a Taxi Permit - City Council
• Livery Service requires a Livery License - City Council
• Second Hand, Junk or Old Metals Dealer requires a Second Hand/Junk/Old Metals License - Board of License Commissioners
• Hawker/Peddler, Transient Vendor or Solicitor requires Hawker/Peddler/Transient Vendor/Solicitor License - See FAQ regarding same.

If approved, you can present the license/permit to the City Clerk's Office, Room 105. You can apply for and be issued a Business Certificate, a copy of which must be brought to the Licensing Office, Room 213 to be filed with your application.

6. Can I host a fundraiser where participants bring a bottle of wine?

Unfortunately, no. An event open to the public and/or advertised requires a One-Day Special Alcohol License. Follow this link to Liquor Special One-day & Entertainment Applications: http://www.framinghamma.gov/398/Licensing

Alcohol must be purchased from a state-licensed supplier. Donations cannot be accepted nor can alcohol be purchased from a retailer or package store.

7. Do I need a permit to hold a yard sale?

No, you do not.

8. Do I need a license to be a hairdresser?

You do not need a license from the City of Framingham. However, one is required from the Mass. Board of Registration of Cosmetology and Barbering. They can be reached at 617-727-9940 or https://www.mass.gov/orgs/board-of-registration-of-cosmetology-and-barbering

9. What licenses do I need to open a business in Framingham?

The type of business you are opening will determine what Framingham license you need, if any.  This link provides information on starting a new business in Massachusetts. 

Once you choose a location, you should contact the Deputy Building Commissioner, 508-532-5500, to confirm the location is zoned to conduct the type of business.

See FAQ for business certificates which also explains licenses you may require from the Licensing Department 508-532-5402.

If you are selling or serving food, contact the Health Department 508-532-5470.

10. How can I renew my Driver's License?

Driver’s Licenses are can be renewed at the MA Registry of Motor Vehicles.  You can contact them by going to their web page: https://www.mass.gov/orgs/massachusetts-registry-of-motor-vehicles.

11. How do I apply for an Alcohol License?

Follow this link for the application process.