Massachusetts § 19 - Acquisition of property; use
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 19 — Acquisition of property; use, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 19. Acquisition of property; use
Section 19. A town, by a two thirds vote at an annual town meeting, or a city, by a two thirds vote of the city council, may determine to take or purchase land within its limits, which shall be a public domain, and any appropriate money and accept gifts of money and land therefor. Such public domain shall be devoted to the culture of forest trees, or to the preservation of the water supply of such city or town, and the title thereto shall vest in the city or town in which it lies, except that cities or towns owning land within the territorial limits of other cities and towns for water supply purposes may, as herein provided, convert such land into a public domain and retain the title thereto.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 19
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 19 cover?
Section 19 ("Acquisition of property; use") 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 § 19?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 19" (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 § 19 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.