Operator's License (a.k.a. Bartender's License)

Operator's License (a.k.a. Bartender's License)

Licenses are now online through OpenGov!  

Simply click here to create or log in to your account.     

Moving forward, once you create an account with OpenGov, you can apply for multiple licenses through the City each year, using the same account (including Dog License/Operator’s License/Special Event/etc). 

Your personal OpenGov account will allow you to:

  • Submit a new/renewal Alcohol Establishment License Application
  • Make a payment with an online payment option
  • Track the progress of your Licenses
  • Message the City with questions or comments regarding your application
  • Print your Establishment Licenses (THE CLERK’S OFFICE WILL ONLY PRINT UPON REQUEST).  Once approvals have been completed, the system will notify you when printing is available.  All applicants have the ability to print at home.
  • Estimated processing time is 1-2 weeks

Operator Licenses are a two year term, expiring June 30th of every odd year regardless of when applied for. License MUST be displayed at Business working for. 

The License fee is $70.00. Fees are due at the time of Application 

Review of your application:

  • The Fitchburg Police Department will perform a background check to verify that the

    information you have provided is complete and accurate.

  • If there are concerns about your arrest and/or conviction record as it relates to your application,

    or if it appears that you falsified or omitted information from your application, you may be called to appear before the Public Saftey and Human Services Committee (PSHS).

  • If you are asked to appear but choose not to do so, your application may be denied.
  • Meetings of the Public saftey and Human Services Committee Meetings are open to the public and televised.

This license is a 2 year license (expiring in the odd number years), and the cost is $70. You must bring one of the following items to apply for an operator's license:

  • Proof that he/she is renewing an existing operator's license held in Fitchburg
  • Certificate showing completion of the beverage server training course within the last two years
  • Copy of a retail license, manager's license, or operator's license that the applicant has held anywhere in the state within the last two years

Please allow at least 1 - 2 week days for processing of the application. If you are renewing your license, you must have your application in the City Clerk's office at least 30 days before the expiration date. Operator's licenses expire on June 30th of odd number years.

Applicant may request a Provisional Operator's license when applying for a regular operator's license.  The cost for a provisional license is $15.

Temporary Operator's License

The application cost is $10 + $7.00 Background Check Fee. You may apply for a temporary operator's license in the Clerk's Office. Allow at least 30 days for processing the application.

The temporary operator's license is good for one to fourteen consecutive days and may only apply for one temporary operator's license per year. This license may be issued only to operators employed by, or donating their services to nonprofit corporations which have been granted a temporary class B or temporary class B license.