Massachusetts § 1 - Posts and pillars indicating meridian lines; ownership; accessibility; destruction or injury
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 1 — Posts and pillars indicating meridian lines; ownership; accessibility; destruction or injury, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 1. Posts and pillars indicating meridian lines; ownership; accessibility; destruction or injury
Section 1. The posts or pillars erected pursuant to chapter two hundred and eighty-six of the acts of eighteen hundred and seventy to indicate the true meridian lines shall remain the property of the respective counties in which they are situated, under the care of the county commissioners, and shall be accessible to any surveyor or civil engineer residing in the same county or engaged in surveying therein, for the purpose of testing the variation of the compass for the time being. Whoever wilfully displaces, alters, defaces, destroys or otherwise injures any of the aforesaid posts or the fixtures thereof, shall be punished by a fine of not more than two hundred dollars, to be divided between the complainant and the county.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 1
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 1 cover?
Section 1 ("Posts and pillars indicating meridian lines; ownership; accessibility; destruction or injury") 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 § 1?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 1" (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 § 1 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.