Permit/License Center

City of Worcester

The City of Worcester issues a wide range of permits/licenses required by Federal, State, and City ordinances. The permits/licenses offered, but not limited to, include construction, dogs and marriages, engineering, fire prevention, food sales/service, housing, operating a business, parking, and parks and recreation.

Please be aware it may be necessary to apply for permits/licenses from multiple city departments depending on your requirements. If needed, please Contact Us to help you with the permit process.

NOTE: The State of Massachusetts is requiring all liquor applications go through the State's system. Please visit the State of Massachusetts ABCC Website for fillable applications and information. Please contact the License Commission Office at 508-799-1198 ext. 33009 to obtain additional forms/instructions to file.

Search Applications

Use the search box below to search for a specific permit or license. The options will narrow based on the text you provide to help you find exactly what you're looking for!

Departments & Divisions

Many different departments and divisions deal with permitting and licensing for a variety of topics. Click on a button below to learn more about what's offered!

Online Permitting

Create an Account • Submit Applications • Manage & Print Permits

Currently, online permitting is available for building, electrical, gas, plumbing, mechanical and housing/health permits from Inspectional Services, as well as the sale of tobacco products and select DPW&P Engineering and Water Operations permits. All other permit applications are available as fillable PDF forms.

We encourage you to submit your application ONLINE through our permit portal! Please complete all required fields, electronically sign and upload the appropriate documents.

Before you can submit an application for a permit or license you must create an account. Please see Signing Up, Creating a Profile & Accessing Your Information and Applying for a Permit & Paying Fees.

Online Permitting

Programs & Initiatives

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Business & Community Development
Small businesses vary widely - permits necessary to open a restaurant are different from those of a flower shop, which are different from those of an auto body shop. We want to make sure that you are able to navigate the system in the most efficient manner possible.
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Plan an Event in Worcester
Special events enhance the quality of life for Worcester residents, bring in visitors who will shop in Worcester businesses and help us celebrate all the diverse cultures and talents of the people of our fine city. Our staff is here to work with you to make your event as great as it can possibly be so contact us today!

Need Help?

Have a question? You can Contact Us to help you with the permit process.

Important Numbers

Departments & Divisions

City Clerk
508-799-1121

DPW&P Engineering
508-929-1300

Fire Prevention
508-799-1822

Inspectional Services
508-799-1198

License Commission
508-799-1198 x33009

Parking Administration
508-799-8656

Parks & Recreation
508-799-1190

Police Department
508-799-8600

Public Health
508-799-8531

City of Worcester
Worcester 311
Monday - Friday
8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Phone: 311
Contact Us
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