Opening a New Food Establishment/ Change in Ownership

 

New food establishments (or those being sold) that have a kitchen for preparing and serving food will need to apply for the required permits and licenses. Types of licenses/permits which will be required will depend on the type of establishment you will be opening but may include any/all of the following: Food Establishment Permit, Common Victualler’s License, signage permits, or perhaps an alcohol license. Applications for Permits and Licenses can be found on the Town’s website: Town of Sharon under the respective departments listed.  

This checklist is meant to be a general guide; you may need to confer with others in the permitting process. It is best to start the process early as the approval process varies from department to department. You may also wish to review the Town of Sharon Business and Development Guide.  

  • Health Department Contact the Health Department and inform them of your plans. If you will be opening a New Establishment or making major renovations, you may be required to complete a Plan Review. This plan must be approved by the Health Department prior to any work beginning. If there is a change in ownership with no major renovations, a permit application to operate the Food Establishment and pre-inspection may be all that you need.  You can discuss your plans with the Health Inspector who will work with you and provide assistance with the process.
  • DPW (Building Department):  A Building Permit is required If you plan to do any construction work to the premises of your business. Click here for online permit application.  A Plumbing Permit may be required. Click here for online permit application. and an Annual Alcohol Inspections 304 (alcohol consumed on premises) may also be required if you have been issued an alcohol permit. Click here for online permit application.   
  • Select Board:  A Common Victualler's License is required for any establishment which serves food or drink to the public, under M.G.L. Chapter 140, Section 2. Contact the Select Board office if you are interested in an  Alcohol License
  •  Fire Department:   Contact the Fire Department and inform then of your plans.  You will most likely need to schedule an appointment for an inspection of your business before you can begin operating.