July 2026
Dear Customers, Colleagues, and Friends,
This year, we gather not just for the Fourth of July, but for the nation’s 250th anniversary. This moment invites us to reflect on the history that shaped our nation, our city and the people who continue to strengthen our neighborhoods every day. As festivities take place throughout the month, I encourage everyone to enjoy the season with care and awareness. Whether you’re attending a community gathering or participating in American 250 activities, please keep safety at the center of your plans.
Our team continues to make steady progress toward the launch of the District’s new unified licensing and registration platform, offering a Business One Stop Solution (BOSS). We expect BOSS to go live on August 10, bringing a clearer and more modern experience to businesses across the District. More updates will be shared on our website and social media as we move closer to launch day.
DLCP’s work supports many businesses and consumers across the District, including restaurants, food service operators, and other licensed establishments that contribute to the city’s vibrancy. Recently, I had the opportunity to attend the 2026 RAMMY Awards hosted by the Restaurant Association of Metropolitan Washington (RAMW). The event recognized outstanding achievements in the community, and I extend congratulations to all finalists and winners. Click here to view the winners.
This month, we are also sharing a Vending Consumer Advisory for businesses operating in the District. The advisory provides important guidance, including key requirements and helpful reminders for staying compliant. You can find this resource — along with additional updates — in the Consumer Protection section below.
As we move through a busy and eventful July, I want to thank you for your continued partnership. The work we do together strengthens the District’s business community and supports the residents who rely on those businesses. We look forward to the progress ahead and to the momentum this season brings.
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 Tiffany Crowe
Director
Stay informed on upcoming industry engagement opportunity.
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DC Real Estate Commission Course Offerings — Hosted by the DC Board of Real Estate Commission on July 23–24, 2026, from 8:00 a.m. to 6:15 p.m. at the MLK Jr. Memorial Library, 901 G Street NW, Washington, DC 20001. NOTE: This event is Open only to licensed Real Estate Commissioners.
As the District celebrates Independence Day, we hope you enjoy time with family, friends, and community. July brings a moment to reflect on our shared history and the energy that makes the District such a vibrant place to live, work, and visit.
In observance of the holiday, DLCP will be closed on Friday, July 3, and will resume normal operations on Monday, July 6. We encourage residents and businesses to plan ahead for any licensing or consumer protection needs during this brief closure.
Wishing everyone a safe and enjoyable Fourth of July.
Our newest DLCP Hub article features Urban Garden Brewing, a woman‑ and Black‑owned craft beer brand in Northwest DC founded by CEO Eamoni Collier. The brewhouse brings together craft beverages, music, art, and neighborhood history — creating a space that reflects the vibrancy and cultural depth of the community. From its Juneteenth opening to the family influences woven throughout the building, Urban Garden Brewing stands as a celebration of Black creativity and the stories that shape the District.
Read the full feature on the DLCP Hub to explore Urban Garden Brewing’s origins and its growing role in the community.
DLCP introduces BOSS: Business One Stop Solution, a new platform that will reshape how businesses complete licensing and registration tasks. Designed to bring multiple services into one place, BOSS will offer a more modern, straightforward way for customers to manage their interactions with the agency. The system is expected to debut August 10, marking a major advancement in how business processes are organized and accessed.
What BOSS Will Offer
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Unified System — Corporate registration, Basic Business Licensing (BBL), Special Events, Weights and Measures, and Vending services will all operate within one connected platform.
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Reduced Uploads — New data connections with partner agencies will lessen the number of documents customers need to provide.
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Stronger Data Links — Improved connections between employer and employee records will support accuracy and cut down on repeated entries.
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Mid‑Cycle Updates — Businesses will be able to make changes to BBL applications even while a license is active.
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Automatic Syncing — Updates made to corporate registration will flow directly into licensing records.
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Customer Dashboard — A new dashboard will give users a clear snapshot of license status, outstanding tasks, and upcoming deadlines.
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Deadline Alerts — Notifications will help customers stay aware of time‑sensitive requirements, such as insurance or bond renewals.
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Updated License Design — Licenses will feature a refreshed look centered on the District’s identity.
Why BOSS Matters
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Simpler Steps — Business transactions will be easier to complete, with fewer hurdles and clearer guidance.
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Quicker Processing — Integrated data flow will help reduce delays and support faster turnaround times.
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More Clarity — Customers will have a better view of what is required and when actions need to be taken.
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Modern Tools — A redesigned interface will offer a smoother experience for both new and returning users.
DLCP will share additional details on our website as we get closer to launch, giving businesses timely guidance to help them prepare for this significant system transition.
DLCP and the District of Columbia Board of Barber and Cosmetology successfully hosted the 18th Annual Barber and Cosmetology Instructor Practitioners Forum on Monday, June 15, at the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library.
The forum brought together educators, practitioners, and industry leaders for a day of collaboration, learning, and professional connection.
Designed to strengthen instructional quality and elevate professional standards across the District, the event offered participants the opportunity to exchange best practices, receive important regulatory updates, engage with leadership, and prepare for ongoing professional development efforts. Director Tiffany Crowe delivered remarks highlighting the District’s focus on high‑quality, consumer‑centered services and the importance of continued learning in advancing the profession.
This year’s forum stood out as a meaningful space for growth, community building, and alignment across the barbering and cosmetology sectors, marking another successful milestone for the District’s professional community.
On Wednesday, June 10, DLCP staff attended a community impact event at Midtown Youth Academy on behalf of Mayor Bowser as part of the activities leading up to UFC Freedom 250. The visit was hosted by UFC, the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization, and featured UFC Welterweight Randy Brown, who spent the day engaging with students.
During the event, Randy Brown spoke with youth about discipline, focus, and personal growth, and led a hands‑on session introducing fundamental boxing techniques. The students were fully engaged, contributing to an energetic and positive atmosphere. The event successfully brought together community leaders, youth, and partners dedicated to creating positive impact in the District.
The Business Resource Center continues to offer practical tools and learning opportunities for District entrepreneurs. July’s schedule features workshops, coaching sessions, and resource events designed to support business owners at every stage of their journey.
We encourage you to review the full July BRC event schedule below and register for the sessions that align with your business goals.
DLCP works with nine Boards and Commissions that help shape licensing standards, uphold professional accountability, and support consumer protection throughout the District. These groups meet regularly to discuss issues affecting licensed industries, consider regulatory matters, and provide a forum where the public can follow ongoing work.
Residents and stakeholders can track upcoming meetings by visiting the monthly calendar on our website. The calendar lists meeting dates, times, and links to additional information.
DLCP's Consumer Protection Unit (CPU) works year‑round to help District residents and businesses stay informed, avoid scams, and understand their rights. From marketplace investigations to educational alerts, the CPU provides resources that support a fair and transparent environment across the District.
What You Need to Know
This month, we encourage readers to explore CPU’s latest advisories, enforcement updates, and consumer alerts. Whether you’re a business owner looking for guidance or a resident seeking reliable information, the CPU offers tools designed to help you stay confident and informed. Click the links below to view our latest advisories.
Protect Yourself: Tips for Safe Purchasing from Vendors on the National Mall
Your Towing Rights: What Drivers Need to Know Before and After a Tow
Protecting Consumers from Summer Rental Scams
Before You Renovate & Revamp: Essential Tips for DC Homeowners This Summer
Transparency at Used Car Dealerships
To file a complaint, visit the DLCP Complaint Portal or contact us at dlcp@dc.gov or (202) 671‑4500 for assistance. DLCP investigators review each submission and take appropriate enforcement action when necessary.
Contact DLCP via email, or our online inquiry form at any time. We’re also available through the live chat on dlcp.dc.gov or by phone at 202-671-4500 during normal business hours.
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