Boston’s 225 New Liquor Licenses: Where the Expansion Stands in 2026

Boston’s expansion of 225 additional liquor licenses continues to progress through its phased implementation process. In late 2024, the Massachusetts Legislature approved Boston’s home rule petition authorizing the creation of these licenses. Implementation commenced in early 2025, when the Boston Licensing Board initiated the first round of approvals. The rollout remains ongoing in 2026, with additional licenses continuing to move through municipal and state review.

As of early 2026, multiple rounds of licenses have been approved, with dozens issued throughout 2025. Additional applications remain under review as applicants proceed through the required licensing process, which includes approval by the Boston Licensing Board and review by the Massachusetts Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission.

The licenses created under this initiative are restricted to designated neighborhoods as outlined in the legislative framework. Examples of these areas include Roxbury, Dorchester, Mattapan, East Boston, Jamaica Plain, Roslindale, West Roxbury, Hyde Park, and portions of the South End and Charlestown. These geographic designations were established as part of the allocation structure governing distribution.

Licenses issued through this expansion operate under a distinct regulatory framework. They are tied to the approved business and location and are issued through a municipal process rather than through private resale. Continued compliance and active operation are required to retain the license. If a licensed business ceases operation or no longer meets program requirements, the license returns to the City for potential reissuance.

The distribution of licenses is being conducted in multiple phases rather than a single release. Additional application rounds and approval hearings remain part of the Licensing Board’s ongoing agenda as the City continues administering the program in accordance with the authorizing legislation.

The 225-license expansion remains in active implementation as of 2026, with further issuances anticipated as the phased rollout proceeds.