Massachusetts § 120 - Legislative powers; election and term of city council
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 120 — Legislative powers; election and term of city council, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 120. Legislative powers; election and term of city council
Section 120. The legislative powers of the city shall be vested in a city council. One of its members shall be elected by the council annually as its president. In cities having five wards, the council shall be composed of seven members, one from each ward and two at large; in cities having six wards, the city council shall be composed of nine member, one from each ward and three at large; in cities having seven wards, the city council shall be composed of eleven members, one from each ward and four at large; in cities having eight wards, the city council shall be composed of eleven members, one from each ward and three at large; in cities having nine wards, the city council shall be composed of thirteen members, one from each ward and four at large; in cities having ten wards, the city council shall be composed of fifteen members, one from each ward and five at large; in cities having eleven wards, the city council shall be composed of fifteen members, one from each ward and four at large; in cities having twelve wards, the city council shall be composed of fifteen members, one from each ward and three at large. Each ward councillor shall be a registered voter in the ward from which he seeks election, and shall be elected by and from the qualified voters of that ward. The councillors-at-large shall be elected by and from the qualified voters of the city.
All members of the city council whether elected at large or by wards shall be elected to serve for two years from the first Monday in January following their elections and until their successors are qualified.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 120
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 120 cover?
Section 120 ("Legislative powers; election and term of city council") 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 § 120?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 120" (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 § 120 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.