Handing out on the street takes a permit
Boston's code says that, except under a permit from the Commissioner of Public Works, nobody may hand out handbills, cards or circulars advertising goods for sale while on foot in a street. Noncommercial handbills need no permit. If you want a street team on a busy corner, apply for the permit first, or keep handouts to your own doorway and events.
Source: Boston Municipal Code 16-12.3. Read October 2026. Check the current rule before you print.
Posting signs is a no in Boston
The city's code enforcement page says you cannot post signs of any form in the city, including on city buildings, poles, traffic light posts, private property or trees, citing Article 16, Section 23.1. Permanent commercial signs go through building permits and zoning instead. Keep posters inside your own windows and give flyers to people.
Source: City of Boston, How Code Enforcement Works in Boston. Read October 2026. Check the current rule before you print.
The three hour snow rule
Property owners must clear snow within three hours after it stops falling, or within three hours of sunrise if it stopped overnight. The city lists fines of $200 for commercial properties, $100 for residential buildings with more than 16 units and $50 for smaller ones. Build snow days into any winter door to door plan, and give crews hangers that can take a damp porch.
Source: City of Boston, How Code Enforcement Works in Boston. Read October 2026. Check the current rule before you print.
Marathon Monday
The 131st Boston Marathon is on Monday, April 19, 2027. If your shop is on or near the course, or your team is cheering a runner, banners, shirts and cards should be ordered by the third week of March.
Source: Boston Athletic Association, 2027 Boston Marathon registration news, July 22, 2026. Read October 2026.
Mailed postcards across a city of neighborhoods
Boston is a city of neighborhoods, from Dorchester to the North End. With street handouts needing a permit and posting off the table, direct mail postcards that you mail through USPS are the simplest way to reach a whole area. Postage is paid separately, and USPS sets the mailing rules.
Source: City of Boston, Neighborhoods. Read October 2026.