Massachusetts § 39G - Pollution of water; damage to property; penalties

Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 39G — Pollution of water; damage to property; penalties, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 39G. Pollution of water; damage to property; penalties

Section 39G. Whoever wilfully or wantonly corrupts, pollutes or diverts any of the waters taken or held under said sections thirty-nine A to thirty-nine E, inclusive, or injures any structure, work or other property owned, held or used by a town under the authority and for the purposes of said sections, shall forfeit and pay to said town three times the amount of damages assessed therefor, to be recovered in an action of tort; and upon conviction of any one of the above wilful or wanton acts shall be punished by a fine of not more than $5,000 or by imprisonment in state prison for not more than 5 years or in the house of correction for not more than 2 years or by both such fine and imprisonment.

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 39G

What does Massachusetts General Laws § 39G cover?

Section 39G ("Pollution of water; damage to property; penalties") 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 § 39G?

A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 39G" (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 § 39G 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.