Massachusetts § 17 - Illegal deposit of substances or things injuring or obstructing navigation
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 17 — Illegal deposit of substances or things injuring or obstructing navigation, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 17. Illegal deposit of substances or things injuring or obstructing navigation
Section 17. Whoever wilfully and without lawful authority or license therefor, deposits in a harbor or other navigable tide waters stones, gravel, mud, ballast, cinders, ashes, dirt or any other substance, tending to injure the navigation or to shoal the depth thereof, or throws or drops into such waters any barrel, box, log, timber or other object, tending to obstruct the navigation thereof, shall be punished by a fine of not less than twenty nor more than one hundred dollars.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 17
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 17 cover?
Section 17 ("Illegal deposit of substances or things injuring or obstructing navigation") 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 § 17?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 17" (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 § 17 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.