Massachusetts § 1A - Boarding vessels without permission; penalty; exceptions
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 1A — Boarding vessels without permission; penalty; exceptions, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 1A. Boarding vessels without permission; penalty; exceptions
Section 1A. Except as provided in section one, whoever, not being a pilot or public officer, boards a boat or vessel without the permission of the owner or person in charge thereof shall be punished by a fine of not more than fifty dollars.
This section shall not apply to a person who boards a rafted-up boat or vessel to reach a boat or vessel which he is authorized to board, or to reach a wharf, dock or float, or who boards a boat or vessel which has been abandoned, or who boards a boat or vessel to save life or prevent personal injury or property damage.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 1A
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 1A cover?
Section 1A ("Boarding vessels without permission; penalty; exceptions") 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 § 1A?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 1A" (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 § 1A 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.