Needham Cuts Liquor License Fees To Support Restaurants

NEEDHAM, MA — Needham is making an effort to help local restaurants and announced on Thursday that it would cut the annual liquor license fees in half for restaurants, hotels and clubs in Needham in 2021.

“As the pandemic continues and our restaurants and small businesses work hard to survive, the Town is seeking ways in which we can support our local economy,” said Select Board member Marianne Cooley. “Helping restaurants reduce their costs is one simple thing we can do to ensure they remain a vibrant part of our community.”

The new license fees, which take effect January 1, 2020, are as follows:

On Premise Alcoholic Beverage
Innholders – reduce to $4,525 $2,262 (from $4,525)
Restaurants – 100 seats or more – All Alcoholic $2,012 (from $4,025)
Restaurants – fewer than 100 seats - Wine /Malt $750 (from $1,500)
Clubs - $255 (from $510)

In addition to reducing liquor license fees, the Town has worked with local restaurants to create expanded or new outdoor patio seating. The Town also placed picnic tables on Town property to encourage residents to enjoy their takeout food and beverages outdoors and eliminated parking meter fees for the summer. The Town is continuing to work with restaurants and other small businesses to find way to continue to support them.

“Given what our industry has been going through, the vote from the Select Board last night is a game changer, said Paul Turano, Chef/Owner of Cook Restaurant. “As we approach the Fall with such uncertainty, renewal costs are a major concern. Needham’s willingness to work with its restaurants could be the difference between us staying open, or many closing their doors.”