Massachusetts § 156 - Stables in vicinity of churches
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 156 — Stables in vicinity of churches, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 156. Stables in vicinity of churches
Section 156. No person shall in a city occupy or use a building for a livery stable, or a stable for taking or keeping horses and carriages for hire or to let, within two hundred feet of a church or meeting house erected and used for the public worship of God, without the written consent of the religious society or parish worshipping therein; but this section shall not prevent such occupation and use if authorized by law on May seventeenth, eighteen hundred and ninety-one, to the extent then authorized.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 156
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 156 cover?
Section 156 ("Stables in vicinity of churches") 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 § 156?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 156" (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 § 156 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.