search icon Accessibility
search icon close icon

Business (D.B.A) Certificate

graphics shape

Town Clerk Services

Business Certificates

If you are conducting business under a name other than your own, you may need to file a Business Certificate with the Town Clerk’s Office. Follow the steps below to complete the process.

Before filing a Business Certificate, zoning approval is required.

How to Obtain a Business Certificate

Step 1: Obtain zoning approval

Complete the Zoning Approval Form and submit it to the Zoning Enforcement Official for review and approval.

The Zoning Enforcement Official is located in the Office of Building Services on the lower level of the Municipal Office Building, 66 Central Square. For questions, call 508-697-0904.

Step 2: Complete the Business Certificate form

Once zoning approval has been granted, complete the Business Certificate Form and file it with the Town Clerk’s Office.

Step 3: Pay the filing fee

The filing fee for a Business Certificate is $40.00. Checks should be made payable to the Town of Bridgewater.

Step 4: Certificate processing

After the application is filed, the Town Clerk’s Office will process the request and provide the applicant with a certified copy.

Step 5: Certificate term and updates

Business Certificates are valid for four years from the date of application. Please note the expiration date printed on the certificate.

If there is any change in the business name, address, or other information that may affect the validity of the certificate, please contact the Town Clerk’s Office.

Important Information

  • Business Certificates are valid for 4 years from the application date.
  • If business information changes, please contact the Town Clerk’s Office.
  • If the business is discontinued, a Statement of Discontinuance Form must be filed with the Town Clerk’s Office.
  • If a discontinuance is not filed, personal property tax bills may continue to be issued for the business.

Statement of Discontinuance

If the business is no longer operating, a Statement of Discontinuance must be completed and filed with the Town Clerk’s Office.

The filing fee is $10.00. Checks should be made payable to the Town of Bridgewater.

View Statement of Discontinuance Form