Running a vendor market in Cambridge.

Special Event Application and Special Events Committee review (City of Cambridge Department of Transportation (Special Events Coordinator) with the Special Events Committee): The application asks for location, date and time, expected attendance, food or alcohol, music and electrical needs. Depending on the event, the organizer attends the monthly Special Events Committee, where staff from different departments review which City permits are required. The License Commission page adds that a detailed site plan is needed showing vendor placement, tents, generators and portable toilets, and a landlord letter for private sites. Park Permit (small events) (City of Cambridge): A Park Permit for small events is available only to Cambridge residents, businesses and organizations, with at least 50% of participants Cambridge residents, and the park stays open to the public. Larger events in parks, plazas or streets go through the Special Event Application instead.

One Day Peddler/Vendor License (City of Cambridge License Commission): The License Commission issues one day hawker, peddler and vendor licenses under state law and Cambridge Municipal Code 5.36. The applicant uploads a letter of permission for the location (a private owner's letter, or the Department of Public Works permit to obstruct the public way for City-owned locations) describing the event and goods; the Board votes on the application.

Sales tax vendor registration (Massachusetts Department of Revenue): Vendors at shows register with the Department of Revenue through MassTaxConnect and collect and pay sales tax on taxable sales. Every vendor must give the show promoter their name, address and vendor registration number. For organizers: Anyone who rents or licenses space at a flea market, craft show or similar show where more than one vendor sells taxable goods is a promoter, whatever the number of shows. The promoter files Form PR-1 with the Department of Revenue at least ten days before the show opens, files a monthly Form PR-3 report within twenty days after any month with a show, may not let an unregistered vendor sell taxable goods, and must also be licensed by the Division of Standards if in business as a promoter.

Special Event / Temporary Food Service permit (City of Cambridge Inspectional Services Department): Food vendors apply through the city's online permitting portal, and may not operate until the application is approved, the fee is paid and the permit is issued. The portal tells applicants to gather documents such as a food protection manager certification and allergy awareness certification, follow the city's guidelines for temporary food establishments, and comply with the city's trans fat policy.

Park Permit (small events): Reserve the park at least 3 weeks in advance (recommended) One Day Peddler/Vendor License: Apply online at least two weeks before the event; about two weeks to process One-day alcohol and entertainment licenses; Noise Control Ordinance: Submit at least two weeks before the event