Massachusetts § 159 - Supervision of inland waters
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 159 — Supervision of inland waters, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 159. Supervision of inland waters
Section 159. The department of environmental protection, in this section and sections one hundred and sixty to one hundred and sixty-six, inclusive, called the department, shall have the general oversight and care of all inland waters and of all streams, ponds and underground waters used by any city, town, water supply or fire district or public institution or by any water or ice company or any person in the commonwealth as sources of ice or water supply and of all springs, streams and watercourses tributary thereto. It shall be provided with maps, plans and documents suitable for such purposes, and shall keep records of all its transactions relative thereto. It shall give notice to the attorney general of any violation of law relative to the pollution of water supplies and inland waters.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 159
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 159 cover?
Section 159 ("Supervision of inland waters") 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 § 159?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 159" (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 § 159 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.