Business Certificates

Applying for a Business Certificate

Non-Agricultural Business in a Residential Zoning District:

1. Complete the form "Business Outside of the Business District Zoning Application".
   • Applications are accepted in person at the Town Hall Annex, 856 Main Road, Westport, MA, 02790. Questions related to zoning approval should be directed to 508-636-1035.
   • Fee: $20.00 (check or cash only)
2. Complete the form "Business Certificate Form - New and Renewal".
   • Applications must be signed in the presence of a notary or the town clerk with ALL business owners present.
   • Fee: $60.00 (check or cash only)
   • Applications (with the approved zoning application) may be brought to the Town Clerk to be filed OR may be mailed to the office for filing but must include a self-addressed, stamped envelope.

Agricultural Businesses and/or Businesses in a Business District:

1. Zoning Approval is not required.
2. Complete the form "Business Certificate Form - New and Renewal".
   • Applications must be signed in the presence of a notary or the town clerk with ALL business owners present.
   • Fee: $60.00 (check or cash only)
   • Applications may be brought to the Town Clerk to be filed OR may be mailed to the office for filing but must include a self-addressed, stamped envelope.

Certificate Renewals follow the process as above and Zoning Approval is not required unless the location has changed.

FAQs

What is a Business Certificate?

A Business Certificate is a registration of a business that is being conducted within the Town of Westport.  It's purpose is primarily for consumer protection and allows the public to identify and locate the owner(s) of a business.  Most financial institutions require a copy of the Business Certificate prior to opening a business banking account.

Who must file a Business Certificate?

Any person conducting business in the Town of Westport, under any title other than the real name of the owner, whether individually or as a partnership. If a partnership, EACH individual must sign the application in the presence of the Town Clerk or a Notary Public. 

Does a Business Certificate expire?

A Business Certificate is in force and effect for four (4) years from the date of issue.  It must be renewed every four (4) years for as long as the business is operating.

What if I go out of business, change my residence, change the location of the business or want to change the name of the business?

A completed "Business Certificate Amendment or Discontinuance" form (linked below) must be filed with the Town Clerk upon discontinuance of the business, withdrawal from the business, partnership withdrawal, or address/location changes. The application must be signed in the presence of the Town Clerk or a Notary Public by EACH owner of the business. If you wish to change ownership of the business or the name of your business, you must "discontinue" the current Business Certificate and file a new certificate with the new business information. If you are changing the location of your business within a residential district Zoning Approval will be required.

Must I display a copy of my Business Certificate?

The law states that copies must be available at the address at which the business is conducted and shall be furnished upon request during regular business hours to any person who has purchased goods or services from your business.

Does the Business Certificate give me the right to operate my business?

The Business Certificate does not allow or permit any business rights with respect to the provisions of the Town of Westport's Zoning Bylaws and is not a permit to conduct business in a residential district prior to Zoning Approval.  For any proposed use, a determination of the applicability of the Zoning Bylaws is to be made by the Zoning Enforcement Officer prior to commencing such use.

What is the penalty for not filing for a Business Certificate?

The law states that a fine of not more than $300 will punish violations for each month during which the violation continues.