Massachusetts § 51 - Liability for violation of statutes; criminal prosecution; notice to firm or corporation

Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 51 — Liability for violation of statutes; criminal prosecution; notice to firm or corporation, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 51. Liability for violation of statutes; criminal prosecution; notice to firm or corporation

Section 51. The owner, lessee, mortgagee in possession or occupant, being the party in control, of a place of assembly, theatre, special hall, public hall, factory, workshop, manufacturing establishment or building shall comply with the provisions of this chapter and the state building code relative thereto, and such person shall be liable to any person injured for all damages caused by a violation of any of said provisions. No criminal prosecution for such violation shall be begun until the lapse of thirty days after such party in control has been notified in writing by a local inspector as to what changes are necessary to meet the requirements of such provisions, or if such changes shall have been made in accordance with such notice. Notice to one member of a firm or to the clerk or treasurer of a corporation or to the person in charge of the building or part thereof shall be sufficient notice hereunder to all members of any firm or corporation owning, leasing or controlling the building or any part thereof. Such notice may be served personally or sent by mail.

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 51

What does Massachusetts General Laws § 51 cover?

Section 51 ("Liability for violation of statutes; criminal prosecution; notice to firm or corporation") 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 § 51?

A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 51" (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 § 51 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.