Entertainment & Amusement Device Licenses

Annual Entertainment and Amusement Device Licenses are governed by Massachusetts General Law ch. 140, sec. 181 &183A. 

An Entertainment & Amusement Device License is required if:

  • You hold a Common Victualler or Alcohol License and are hosting a public show (defined below)
  • You are hosting a public show and plan to charge an admission fee
  • You offer an "automatic amusement device" which is a coin operated amusement skill game such as a pinball machine or a video game

Please note that a "public show" includes the following:

  • Recorded or live music
  • Dancing, whether by performers or patrons
  • Television
  • An amplification system
  • A theatrical play or a film screening
  • A floor show or light show
  • Any other audio or visual show

Entertainment & Amusement Device License Application Requirements:

  • Town of Andover General License Application
  • Entertainment & Amusement Device License Application Addendum
  • Business Certificate
  • Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) Acknowledgement Form 
  • Tax Form
  • Worker’s Compensation Affidavit
  • Copy of worker’s compensation policy declaration page

Upon prior approval from the Police Department, Fire Department, Health Department, Building Department, and Town Treasurer, an Entertainment & Amusement Device License application requires final approval by the Town Manager, as Licensing Authority.  Once approved, this license is subject to an annual renewal by December 31st of each calendar year.

The fee for this license is $85.00 plus $100.00 per automatic amusement device (if any).

To apply for an Entertainment & Amusement Device License, please click the following link:
Entertainment & Amusement Device License Application

Additional Links

Massachusetts General Law, Chapter 140, Section 181
Massachusetts General Law, Chapter 140, Section 183A