Show All Answers

1. Who must file?

Any person conducting business under any title other than the complete real name of the owner, whether individually or as a partnership. Any corporation doing business in a name other than the corporate name. (Must be filed by a corporate officer). INC., CORP., and LTD., may only be used by a corporation.

2. Where does one file?

File with the Office of the Town Clerk, in person, in every city or town where an office of any such person, partnership, or corporation may be situated.

3. What about a change?

Upon discontinuing, retiring, or withdrawing from such business or partnership, or in the case of a change of residence of such person or of the location where the business is conducted; such form must be filed with the Office of the Town Clerk.

4. Does a business certificate expire?

A business certificate is in force and in effect for 4 years from the date of issue. A new filing must be made every 4 years as long as the business is conducted.

5. Do I have to display the certificate?

No, but you must provide a copy on request, during regular business hours, to any person who has purchased goods or services from such business.

6. What is the application process?

Although the Town / City Clerk’s Office issues only the business certificate dealing with the DBA, there may be other licenses, permits, and/or requirements for you to conduct your business within the Town of Winchester. It is the full responsibility of the business owner to research such requirements. In an effort to notify you of the town’s requirements, we ask that you receive a stamp of approval from the Building Office and the Tax Collector. Once those stamps have been filled out, you may return to the Town Clerk for the business certificate.

7. May I file by mail?

Yes. Access the online application (PDF) and send the completed document to the Winchester Town Clerk located at:

Town Hall

71 Mt. Vernon St.

1st Floor

Winchester, MA 01890

All persons applying for a business certificate, and named on the form, must appear before a notary public, and personally, to have their signatures witnessed. Our office hours are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.