Alcohol License

The License Commission issues and oversees all alcohol licenses issued in the City of Haverhill.  

Package Stores (Section 15 Licenses)

Massachusetts limits package stores by population.  Haverhill's current quota is 28 (14 All-alcohol and 14 wine & malt).  We  do not currently have any available all alcohol and/or wine & malt only licenses.  Please contact the Clerk's Office for information on the application process.     

Pouring Licenses  (Section 12 Licenses)--Restaurant/General on premises/Taverns/Clubs

Unlike Section 15 Licenses, Haverhill is not restricted by a quota on section 12 licenses, our number is unlimited.  

If you are interested in applying for a Pouring License (Section 12 License) please click here for general instructions and information.

One Day Licenses

Individuals, Non-Profits, Businesses without current liquor licenses can apply for one day liquor licenses.  The cost is a $60 application fee along with $100 for wine & malt only or $125 for all alcohol (only available to individuals/nonprofits)

An application needs to be completed and returned with the required fee. The liquor liability insurance for the server and the safe service of alcohol certificate (commonly referred to as TIPS certification) for each of the servers must accompany the application. The next step is to have the Police Department do a background check on the applicant.  Then the application is placed on the following License Commission agenda (please see the Calendar page under License Commission for the next meeting).  If the location of the event is on City Property, the application will also have to be approved by the City Council.  Please allow 2-3 weeks for application processing.

All alcohol purchased for this event must be purchased from an Authorized Source in the State of MA.  All receipts must be provided to the License Commission Clerk no later than 4:00 pm on the last business day before the event.

Carry-In License

NB: Payment of Fees is required, but does not guarantee that a permit will be issued. The project must pass all required approvals first.

Apply Online