Massachusetts § 4 - Overflow or injury to land; action for compensation; limitation; venue
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 4 — Overflow or injury to land; action for compensation; limitation; venue, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 4. Overflow or injury to land; action for compensation; limitation; venue
Section 4. The owner or occupant of land which has been overflowed or otherwise injured by such dam may bring a civil action to obtain compensation therefor. Such action shall be commenced within three years next after the event complained of in the superior court for the county where the land or any part thereof lies; but if the land overflowed or injured is outside the commonwealth such action shall be brought in the superior court for the county where the dam or any part thereof is maintained.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 4
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 4 cover?
Section 4 ("Overflow or injury to land; action for compensation; limitation; venue") 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 § 4?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 4" (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 § 4 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.