The Somerville Licensing Commission is responsible for issuing various types of licenses including: alcohol, common victualer, inholder, and entertainment and dance. The Commission adopts and enforces rules and regulations pertaining to these licenses, and local ordinances and laws.
The Commission determines the amount of license fees and the hours of operation in accordance with local and state laws.
Additionally, the Commission acts on complaints received from public safety officials, elected officials and the general public relative to alleged violations of its rules and regulations, Massachusetts General Laws and/or local ordinances by food, liquor or entertainment establishments in the city. Complaints are investigated, and if warranted, a hearing is held. If an establishment is found in violation, sanctions are levied against the establishment that may include a license modification, suspension, revocation or reduction in hours.
The Licensing Commission consists of three members who are appointed by the Mayor, a police officer who is assigned as the Commission’s investigator, and the executive secretary.
Alcohol license applications can be made through our CitizenServe Portal.
| Liquor License Area Locations | All Forms (Total Available) |
Wine & Malt (Total Available) |
| Citywide | 7 | 3 |
| Assembly Square District* | 6 | 6 |
| Enhancement Area | 5 | 3 |
| Transformative Area | 2 | 1 |
| Package Store | 0 | 0 |
*Assembly Square licenses can either be All Forms or Wine & Malt Chapter 142, Acts of 2016
Last Updated 1/5/2019
Rules and regulations for the benefit of all licensees, members of the Somerville Police and Fire Departments, and the general public
Schedule of fees from the Somerville Licensing Commission
The purpose of this form is to allow individuals to file complaints with the Somerville Licensing Commission relative to suspected violations concerning businesses licensed by the commission. To file a complaint, please complete the form below and return it to the City of Somerville Licensing Commission Office.
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