Massachusetts § 42A - Establishment in towns under direction of selectmen; appointment of fire chief, other officers and firemen; compensation; removal; regulations; control of department
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 42A — Establishment in towns under direction of selectmen; appointment of fire chief, other officers and firemen; compensation; removal; regulations; control of department, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 42A. Establishment in towns under direction of selectmen; appointment of fire chief, other officers and firemen; compensation; removal; regulations; control of department
Section 42A. In towns which accept this section or have accepted corresponding provisions of earlier laws there shall be a fire department established under the direction of the selectmen, who shall appoint a chief of the fire department and such other officers and firemen as they deem necessary, and fix their compensation in an amount not in the aggregate exceeding the annual appropriation therefor. The selectmen may make suitable regulations governing the fire department and the officers and firemen thereof, and in towns which are not subject to chapter thirty-one may remove the chief and other officers and firemen at pleasure. The chief of the fire department shall be in immediate control of all town property used by the department, and of the officers and firemen, who shall obey his orders.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 42A
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 42A cover?
Section 42A ("Establishment in towns under direction of selectmen; appointment of fire chief, other officers and firemen; compensation; removal; regulations; control of department") 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 § 42A?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 42A" (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 § 42A 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.