Massachusetts Liquor License FAQ

Answers to common questions about restaurant, bar and package store licenses under G.L. c. 138. For help with an application, transfer or hearing, see our liquor license and business licensing lawyer page or our business license checklist.

What are the main types of liquor licenses in Massachusetts?

Section 12 licenses allow on-premises consumption at restaurants, hotels, taverns and clubs. Section 15 licenses allow package (off-premises) sales at liquor stores, supermarkets and convenience stores. Section 14 special licenses cover one-day events. Manufacturer, wholesaler and farmer-series licenses, such as farmer-winery, farmer-brewery and farmer-distillery licenses, are issued separately, mostly by the ABCC.

What is the difference between an all-alcohol and a wine and malt license?

An all-alcohol license allows sales of beer, wine and spirits. A wine and malt license allows only beer, wine and certain related beverages. Wine and malt licenses are often easier to obtain because the quota counts them separately.

How does the liquor license quota work?

Section 17 of Chapter 138 sets the number of Section 12 and Section 15 licenses each city and town may issue based on its population in the most recent federal census. Seasonal licenses and certain special licenses are counted separately. Once a municipality reaches its quota, it cannot issue more without special legislation.

How do I get a license if my town is at its quota?

You can buy an existing license from a current holder and apply to transfer it to your business and premises, or ask the city or town to file a home rule petition with the Legislature for an additional license. Transfers require local and ABCC approval, and the purchase should be conditioned on those approvals.

What happens at the local licensing hearing?

The city or town publishes notice of the application, notifies abutters where required, and holds a public hearing. The board considers the applicant’s background, the manager, the premises, the business plan, the needs of the public, neighborhood impact and any comments from police, residents and other departments. The board then votes to grant, deny or grant with conditions.

Can a business near a school or church get a liquor license?

Possibly. Section 16C restricts licenses for premises within 500 feet of a school or church, measured in a straight line, but a local board may approve the license if it finds in writing after a hearing that the premises are not detrimental to the school or church, and some other exceptions apply.

Who can hold a liquor license?

Applicants must generally be at least 21 and of good character. A 2024 economic development law removed the U.S. citizenship requirement for restaurant license holders and managers, so lawful permanent residents may now qualify. A narcotics conviction disqualifies applicants for on-premises licenses, and a felony conviction disqualifies applicants for package store licenses. Package store licenses also carry residency requirements and a limit of nine licenses statewide per holder.

What is a manager of record?

Every license must have an approved manager who is responsible for day-to-day operations and has full authority over the licensed premises. A new manager must be approved by both the local licensing authority and the ABCC before taking over. If the approved manager leaves, the licensee should apply for a change of manager right away.

Do ownership changes need approval?

Yes. Changes in officers, directors, stockholders, LLC members or other people with a financial interest in the license generally must be approved by the local licensing authority and the ABCC before they take effect. Unapproved changes can lead to discipline.

Can I use my liquor license as collateral for a loan?

Yes, but a pledge of the license under Section 23 of Chapter 138 requires approval from both the local licensing authority and the ABCC.

When must a liquor license be renewed?

Annual Section 12 and Section 15 licenses must be renewed during the month of November for the following calendar year, along with any required local documents and fees.

What can happen if my business is cited for a violation?

After notice and a hearing, the local board may suspend, modify, revoke or cancel the license, or impose conditions. The ABCC can also take action. Common violations include sales to minors, overserving, operating outside licensed hours and unapproved changes in management or ownership.

How do I appeal a licensing board decision?

An applicant or licensee aggrieved by a local decision on a liquor license may generally appeal to the ABCC within five days after receiving written notice of the decision. ABCC decisions can be appealed to the Superior Court. Because these deadlines are very short, contact counsel as soon as a decision is issued.

Can I sell alcohol at a one-day event?

Yes, with a special one-day license under Section 14, issued by the local licensing authority. The same person generally cannot hold special licenses for more than 30 days in a calendar year, with limited exceptions. Some events also need entertainment, food and public safety approvals.

Official Sources

• G.L. c. 138, the Liquor Control Act
• The Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission (ABCC)
• Your city or town clerk, licensing board or select board

Opening a business, buying a license, or facing a licensing hearing? Contact Muggeo & Associates or call (978) 741-1177. Our Salem office represents business owners before licensing boards across the North Shore and Massachusetts.

This page is general information, not legal advice. Licensing rules, fees, quotas and local procedures vary by city and town and change over time. Contacting the firm does not create an attorney-client relationship. Prior results do not guarantee future outcomes. Last reviewed November 2026.