Massachusetts § 65A - Limitation on the purchase and application of phosphorus containing fertilizer; additional regulations for the limitation of non-point source pollution from plant nutrients
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 65A — Limitation on the purchase and application of phosphorus containing fertilizer; additional regulations for the limitation of non-point source pollution from plant nutrients, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 65A. Limitation on the purchase and application of phosphorus containing fertilizer; additional regulations for the limitation of non-point source pollution from plant nutrients
Section 65A. (a) No person shall purchase and apply or authorize any person, by way of service contract or other arrangement, to apply in the commonwealth any phosphorus containing fertilizer on lawn or non-agricultural turf, except when:
(1) a soil test indicates that additional phosphorus is needed for growth of that lawn or non-agricultural turf; or
(2) the phosphorus fertilizer is confirmed to be used for establishing a new lawn or new non-agricultural turf area.
(b) The department shall promulgate regulations to implement subsection (a) and may, consistent with subsection (a) and in consultation with the department of environmental protection, develop additional regulations designed to limit non-point source pollution from plant nutrients including, but not limited to, phosphorous and nitrogen. Such regulations may require retailers of phosphorus containing fertilizer to display such fertilizers separately and post signs specifying when and where phosphorus containing fertilizer may be applied.
(c) Regulations promulgated under this section shall be designed to maximize credits provided to municipalities by the United States Environmental Protection Agency relative to stormwater discharge and similar permits, which the Environmental Protection Agency may require of municipalities.
(d) Violations of any regulations promulgated under this section shall be subject to the penalties set forth in subsection (k) of section 2.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 65A
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 65A cover?
Section 65A ("Limitation on the purchase and application of phosphorus containing fertilizer; additional regulations for the limitation of non-point source pollution from plant nutrients") 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 § 65A?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 65A" (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 § 65A 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.