Overview

The purpose of a Business Certificate is to make known the ownership and location of a business for public information and is regulated by Massachusetts General Law Chapter 110 §5. Business Certificates are valid for four (4) years. 

A Statement of Discontinuance/Business Change Form must be submitted to the Town Clerk’s office if the business address changes, the business name changes, the business owner/partnership changes, and/or the business closes. A change in location requires a Statement of Discontinuance and a new Business Certificate Application to be submitted to the Town Clerk. 

How To Obtain a Business Certificate

1. Complete the online Business Certificate Application in its entirety, with all required attachments.
2. Submit the Application to the Town Clerk’s Office or online, then:
   1. Receive information regarding Personal Property Tax obligations from the Assessor’s Department via email following submission (by signing the application, the applicant acknowledges receipt and understanding of this information);
   2. Receive and complete any applications for required Planning Board approvals (if applicable);
   3. Receive and complete any required Health Department permits (if applicable).

Fees for obtaining a Business Certificate: 

• Business Certificate Application: $30 
• Planning Board review: $20 (additional fees for Special Permit or Site Plan Review) 
• Non-Residents doing Business in Massachusetts: $25