Licensing, Permitting & Certification
State agencies and local governments regulate specific occupations, types of businesses and business activities. Some laws and regulations require a license, permit or certification.
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Massachusetts building, electrical, plumbing, gas and fire codes regulate construction or alteration of all buildings except federally-owned buildings. Municipalities appoint certified officials to enforce these codes, grant permits to construct or work on buildings, and inspect buildings after work has been completed for compliance with the codes.
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The Community features discussion forums, an idea page and blogs, where small business owners can talk about their unique business issues and get direct access to even more valuable resources. The goal is for the Community to foster more engagement between the small business community and the government so that the collective expertise from both groups can be leveraged for greater collaboration and success.
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Massachusetts has many environmental and energy regulations that may govern special projects, such as construction of a new facility, or how your business operates on a day-to-day basis.
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The Commonwealth requires practitioners of several occupations and operators of many types of businesses to be licensed. Local governments issue some types of licenses, while a variety of state agencies issue other types. Please visit this page at the Office of Consumer Affairs & Business Regulation website.
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Local governments and a variety of state agencies regulate businesses, professions and specific business activities. Some regulations and licensing requirements are established by state law, but administered at the local level.
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If your company operates vehicles, they, the fuel they use, or the cargo they carry may require special markings, permits and/or registrations, especially if they will travel across state borders. Also, fuels used may be subject to tax, and the drivers of these vehicles may be subject to special licensing requirements.
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Workplace health and safety is regulated by state and federal law.