Massachusetts § 15 - Powers of arrest
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 15 — Powers of arrest, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 15. Powers of arrest
Section 15. The forester, the state fire warden or any duly authorized assistant, the forest warden in a town or the official performing the duties of a forest warden in a city, or any duly appointed deputy forest warden, the director of the division of fisheries and wildlife, an environmental police officer or deputy environmental police officer or a fish and game warden may arrest without warrant any person found in the act of setting, maintaining or increasing a fire in violation of section thirteen. They shall take precautions to prevent the progress of forest fires, or the improper kindling thereof, and upon the discovery of any such fire shall immediately require the necessary assistance in accordance with section ten, the provisions of which and of sections eleven and twelve are hereby made applicable in such case, and shall notify the local forest warden.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 15
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 15 cover?
Section 15 ("Powers of arrest") 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 § 15?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 15" (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 § 15 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.