Calling all restaurant, bar, hotel, tavern, pub & club owners.... you have approximately T-minus 7 days to get those renewal forms in to your local licensing authorities!
If you are planning to keep your alcohol license active through the New Year, make sure to satisfy all renewal process requirements pursuant to Massachusetts G.L. Ch. 138 § 16A no later than Monday, November 30, 2015 at 5:00 p.m. You should have received a renewal package from your local licensing authority a few weeks ago, detailing the step by step process for renewals. If your business is located outside of Boston, be sure to check the deadline for renewal submission, as some licensing authorities require earlier submissions (e.g., the Town of Watertown's deadline is TODAY). Failure to submit the required renewal forms and supporting documentation will result in 1) the expiration of your license as soon as the ball drops in Times Square at midnight (i.e., not a good way to start off 2016), and 2) having to start from scratch and apply for a new license. I'm all into New Year's resolutions and getting things off to a fresh start, but this is not the kind of clean slate I have in mind for my clients.
Want to beat the renewal rush? Get there no later than Wednesday to avoid lines and delays, as well as provide yourself a cushion should the Board require further documentation not already included in your submission.