Massachusetts § 123A - Willful trespass upon public source of water, water supply facility or land

Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 123A — Willful trespass upon public source of water, water supply facility or land, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 123A. Willful trespass upon public source of water, water supply facility or land

Section 123A. (a) Whoever willfully trespasses upon any public source of water or public water supply facilities or land after having been forbidden to do so by a person who has lawful control of the water, facilities or land, or an agent of such a person, whether directly or by notice posted on such water supply facility or land, shall be punished by a fine of not less than $250 nor more than $1,000.

(b) Whoever commits any offense described in subsection (a) with the intent to corrupt, pollute or defile such public source of water shall be punished by a fine of not less than $1,000 nor more than $5,000 or by imprisonment in the house of correction for not more than 2 years or in state prison for not more than 5 years or by both such fine and imprisonment. Whoever is convicted of a second or subsequent violation of this subsection shall be punished by a fine of not less than $1,000 nor more than $10,000 or by imprisonment in state prison for not less than 5 years nor more than 10 years or by both such fine and imprisonment.

(c) In addition to the punishments outlined in subsections (a) and (b), restitution in the amount of costs associated with water quality analysis and any subsequent investigation to determine water safety and security of the facilities or land may be ordered by a court after a hearing relative to such restitution.

(d) A law enforcement officer may arrest, without a warrant, any person that the officer has probable cause to believe has violated this section.

Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 123A

What does Massachusetts General Laws § 123A cover?

Section 123A ("Willful trespass upon public source of water, water supply facility or land") 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 § 123A?

A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 123A" (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 § 123A 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.