Local
Boston plans zoning and permit changes aimed at easing restaurant openings
Mayor Michelle Wu announced three proposed steps to reduce hurdles for Boston restaurants: streamline permits when a business changes hands, allow restaurants by right in commercial districts and improve online startup guidance. The announcement came Tuesday at Marabou Cafe in Mattapan.
Boston plans to change zoning rules and licensing guidance to make it easier to open, operate and transfer ownership of restaurants, Mayor Michelle Wu announced Tuesday, Oct. 27, at Marabou Cafe in Mattapan.
The city’s three planned changes include allowing restaurant ownership to transfer without requiring a new filing for permits that were previously approved, permitting restaurants by right in commercial districts, and updating online information for people starting the process of opening a restaurant.
Wu said the goal is to save restaurant owners time, money and stress. She described Marabou Cafe as an example of the role small businesses play in Mattapan, including creating jobs and bringing neighbors together.
The announcement also included a leadership change at the city’s Office of Consumer Affairs and Licensing. Wu named Ava Callender Concepcion executive director of the office and chair of both the Boston Licensing Board and Boston Cannabis Board, replacing Kathleen Joyce. The office oversees food and liquor licenses for restaurants, nightclubs and other businesses.
The city did not provide a timeline for implementing the policy changes in the announcement. Easier permitting could reduce administrative barriers for restaurant operators, while the zoning and licensing changes will shape how prospective businesses navigate opening in Boston.