Massachusetts § 18 - Unlawful use of registered bottles; application of section

Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 18 — Unlawful use of registered bottles; application of section, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 18. Unlawful use of registered bottles; application of section

Section 18. No person, without the written consent of the registered owner thereof, shall fill with a beverage with intent to sell the same any vessel registered under the preceding section, or change in any way, or conceal any name or the word ''registered'' thereon, or buy, sell, traffic in or dispose of any such vessel. This section shall not apply to vessels purchased from the registered owner; provided, that making a money charge or requiring the deposit of a sum of money under an agreement to refund the same upon the redelivery of the vessel shall not constitute a purchase thereof, within the meaning of this section. Violation of any provision of this section shall for the first offence be punished by a fine of not less than fifty cents for each vessel in respect to which the violation occurs or by imprisonment for not less than ten days nor more than one year, or both, and for each subsequent offence by a fine of not less than one nor more than five dollars for each such vessel or by imprisonment for not less than twenty days nor more than one year.

Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 18

What does Massachusetts General Laws § 18 cover?

Section 18 ("Unlawful use of registered bottles; application of section") is part of the Massachusetts General Laws, the codified statutory law of Massachusetts. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Massachusetts § 18?

A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 18" (Massachusetts). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Massachusetts law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Massachusetts official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Massachusetts attorney.

How does Massachusetts § 18 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Massachusetts can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Massachusetts.