Resources for Businesses
Permits
Business Certificates
All businesses in the town are required to have a business certificate, obtain one here.
Building Permits
The town’s building permit page is here
Body Art Establishments
Body art establishment permits can be found here.
Obtain a Food Establishment License
If you plan on opening a food establishment, look at the town’s food establishment resources.
Permit to Conduct Raffles
The town requires you to get a permit to host raffles here.
Liquor Permit
Are you planning on selling alcohol as part of your business? You must contact the city clerk to obtain a liquor permit.
Call 617-972-6486 or email cityclerk@watertown-ma.gov
Tanning Establishment Resources
If you plan on opening a tanning establishment, look at the town’s tanning establishment requirements.
Temporary Food Events Application
If your business is hosting a temporary food event you must fill out the application here.
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Zoning Board of Appeals’ primary function is to act on all discretionary permits which include Special Permits, Here is the official page.
City Events
Apply for Arts Market
Apply to have a table at the Watertown Arts Market here.
Apply for a Farmers Market Table
The Watertown Farmers Market is accepting applications to have a table, you can find the application here.
Get a Table at The Faire On The Square
Become an exhibitor at the Faire in the Square by filling out their application here.
Government Resources
Small Business Administration Resources (SBA)
The SBA has a number of very useful resources for small businesses on its website here.
Energy & Utilities Resources
Click here for National Grid’s energy services for businesses.
Life Sciences
Adopted – rDNA – Biosafety Regulations
Biotechnology Regulations
Biotechnology Permit Annual Application
Biotechnology Registration Annual Application
Biotechnology FAQ
Other City Resources
Business Parking Permit
Did you know that the town sells parking passes for businesses in Watertown Square allowing them to park in the Watertown Square parking lots each quarter? Click here to apply.
Business Relocation
If you are relocating your business make sure to check the town’s business relocation page.
Filing for Going Out of Business
The town has a page for any business doing a going-out-of-business sale here.
Get Town Alert Notifications
Sign up for alerts from the town here.
Signs and Design Guidelines
Check certain design guidelines and signage guidelines here.
For more information visit the city of Watertown’s official website.