Massachusetts § 76 - Ways, railroads, canals or public easements through burial grounds
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 76 — Ways, railroads, canals or public easements through burial grounds, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 76. Ways, railroads, canals or public easements through burial grounds
Section 76. Whoever lays out, opens, or makes a highway or town way, or constructs a railroad or canal, or any other thing in the nature of a public easement, over, through, in or upon any part of an enclosure, which is the property of a city, town, parish, religious society or of private proprietors and is used or appropriated for the burial of the dead, unless authority for that purpose is specially granted by law, or unless the consent of such city, town, parish, religious society or proprietors, respectively, is first obtained, shall be punished by a fine of not more than two thousand dollars or by imprisonment for not more than one year.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 76
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 76 cover?
Section 76 ("Ways, railroads, canals or public easements through burial grounds") 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 § 76?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 76" (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 § 76 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.