Massachusetts § 12 - Fencing dangerous canals
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 12 — Fencing dangerous canals, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 12. Fencing dangerous canals
Section 12. The city council of a city or the selectmen of a town may, for the purpose of determining whether a canal or waterway within the limits of the city or town is dangerous to the public, give a public hearing thereon, after notice in writing, to the person owning, operating or controlling said canal or waterway, and if after such hearing the council or selectmen shall adjudge said canal or waterway to be dangerous to the public, they shall order that a suitable fence be erected along said canal or waterway or any portion thereof. The person so ordered to erect the fence may within thirty days after written notice of said order, appeal therefrom to the department of highways, which shall thereupon give due notice and hear all parties interested, and its decision thereon shall be final.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 12
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 12 cover?
Section 12 ("Fencing dangerous canals") 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 § 12?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 12" (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 § 12 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.