Massachusetts § 15 - Coordinates; location of points on earth's surface

Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 15 — Coordinates; location of points on earth's surface, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 15. Coordinates; location of points on earth's surface

Section 15. The plane rectangular coordinates of a point on the earth's surface, to be used in expressing the position or location of such point in the appropriate zone of said system, shall consist of two distances, expressed in feet and decimals of a foot. One of these distances, to be known as the ''X coordinate'', shall give the position in an east-west direction; the other to be known as the ''Y coordinate'', shall give the position in a north-south direction. Such coordinates shall be referred to the appropriate origin as defined in section sixteen, and shall be made to depend upon and conform to the plane rectangular coordinates of the triangulation and traverse stations of the former United States Coast and Geodetic Survey within the commonwealth, as these coordinates had been determined by said survey.

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 15

What does Massachusetts General Laws § 15 cover?

Section 15 ("Coordinates; location of points on earth's surface") 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.