Alcohol Licenses and Permits
The Selectboard is the local licensing authority (LLA), with the ability to issue licenses and permits for a broad range of activities, such as the sale of alcoholic beverages, automobile sales, and automatic amusement devices.
- Alcohol Licensing
The Bernardston Selectboard is the Local Licensing Authority (LLA) for granting alcohol licenses under Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 138; Section 12 (On-Premise - Restaurants) & Section 15 (Off-Premise - Package Stores) and has sole authority for the issuance and regulation of all such alcoholic beverage licenses within the Town. The Town Administrator processes all requests for new On-Premise and Off-Premise alcohol licenses, amendments & transfers to existing licenses and annual renewal of alcohol licenses.
- How to Apply for an Alcoholic Beverages Retail License (New or Transfer)
Applications must be filled out electronically! Print and submit your application to the Selectboard Office with all of the required attachments and fees. A hearing will be scheduled within 10 days of your application submission date.
What you need to Apply for a New Alcoholic Beverage Retail License
- How to Apply for a One-Day Liquor License (Special License)
In the case of events held by private residents, outside of their private residence, a One Day Liquor License is required if ANY of the following apply to the event:
- The event is open to the public;
- Money is exchanged for alcohol;
- Tickets are sold;
- A donation or entrance fee is required or solicited;
- In the case of events held by a business or charity, it is the determination of the Licensing Agent whether a One Day Liquor License is required. This determination is based upon the location of the event, the purpose of the event, who is invited to the event, what fees are charged for the event, and other relevant information.
For more detailed information regarding One Day Liquor Licenses and to apply, please contact the Town Administrator at (413) 648-5401 or email bos [at] townofbernardston.org (bos[at]townofbernardston[dot]org)