Massachusetts § 170 - Willful defilement or corruption of spring or source of water
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 170 — Willful defilement or corruption of spring or source of water, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 170. Willful defilement or corruption of spring or source of water
Section 170. Whoever willfully and maliciously defiles or corrupts any spring or other source of water, or reservoir, or destroys or injures any pipe, conductor of water or other property pertaining to an aqueduct, or aids or abets in any such trespass, shall be punished by a fine of not more than twenty-five thousand dollars for each day that such willful and malicious activity occurs or continues, or imprisonment in state prison for not more than 5 years or in the house of correction for not more than 2 years or by both such fine and imprisonment. Whoever otherwise defiles or corrupts any spring or other source of water, or reservoir, or destroys or injures any pipe, conductor of water or other property pertaining to an aqueduct shall be subject to a civil penalty not to exceed twenty-five thousand dollars per day for each day that such violation occurs or continues.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 170
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 170 cover?
Section 170 ("Willful defilement or corruption of spring or source of water") 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 § 170?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 170" (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 § 170 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.