Handyman Business Permit Requirements in Boston, MA
Complete permit and license guide for starting a handyman business in Boston, Suffolk County, Massachusetts.
Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. Last verified: .
Boston / Suffolk County Requirements
1 requirementBoston Business Certificate
Sole proprietors and partnerships doing business in Boston under a trade name (DBA) must file a Business Certificate with the Boston City Clerk. This is required if you use any name other than your own legal name. Valid for 4 years.
Massachusetts State Requirements
2 requirementsMassachusetts Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) Registration
Any contractor or subcontractor who performs home improvement work on 1–4 family owner-occupied residential properties in Massachusetts must register as a Home Improvement Contractor with the Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation (OCABR). This applies to handymen doing regular home improvement work. Registration is required statewide — there is no dollar-amount exemption. Initial fee: $150. The registration must be renewed every 2 years for $100.
Massachusetts Construction Supervisor License (CSL) — if pulling permits
To pull building permits for structural work on 1–2 family homes in Massachusetts, a Construction Supervisor License is required. Handymen performing non-structural repairs do not need this. If you plan to supervise structural work (framing, roofing, etc.), you need a CSL. Requires passing an exam and having relevant experience.
Federal Requirements
1 requirementEIN (Employer Identification Number)
Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC/corporation. Free from the IRS.
Official Sources
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