Procedures for Obtaining a Retail Permit
Division of Health
Farmers market managers must apply for and obtain a Short Form permit from the ISD, Building Division. This permit must include the description of the activities to be conducted and the time frame.
Note: A letter of recommendation from the Mayor's Office of Neighborhood Services (MONS) detailing all activities to be conducted and the time frame may be required. Fees: $50
If a market manager is looking to establish a market on a public sidewalk, you must obtain a permit from the Department of Public Works, Anne McNeil, Rm. 714, City Hall, (617) 635-5312.
If you wish to establish a farmers market in a City park, you must obtain a permit from the Parks and Recreation Department, 1010 Mass Ave, 3rd floor (617) 635-4505.
All farmers market managers are required to contact the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources at (617) 626-1754.
Market managers looking to provide cooking demonstrations must contact the Boston Fire Department, Special Hazards Division at 1010 Mass Ave., (617)343-3447, to see if a fire inspection and/or permit are needed. Tent structures must be reviewed and approved by the Fire and Building Divisions at (617) 635-5300.
Retail Farmers Market Permit
Individual vendors wishing to sell packaged or processed foods that are produced on a farm must contact the Health Division, Inspectional Services Department. Permit fee is $100.
Farmers Market Application
Farmers Market Regulatory Review
For additional information about:
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- Opening and operating a farmers market and wine sales
- Food safety and sanitation, licensure and City requirements
- State regulations
- Seafood Dealers at Farmers Markets Pilot Program
