Massachusetts § 2 - Dams; injury to existing mill; prohibition

Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 2 — Dams; injury to existing mill; prohibition, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 2. Dams; injury to existing mill; prohibition

Section 2. Such dam shall not be erected to the injury of a mill lawfully existing above or below it on the same stream, nor to the injury of a mill site on the same stream on which a mill or mill dam has been lawfully erected and used, unless the right to maintain a mill on such last mentioned site has been lost by abandonment or otherwise; nor shall a mill dam be erected or raised to the injury of any such mill site which has been occupied as such by the owner thereof, if, within a reasonable time after commencing such occupation, he completes and puts in operation a mill for the working of which the water of such stream is applied; nor shall a mill or dam be placed on the land of any person without such grant, conveyance or authority from the owner as would be necessary to convey land.

Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 2

What does Massachusetts General Laws § 2 cover?

Section 2 ("Dams; injury to existing mill; prohibition") 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 § 2?

A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 2" (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 § 2 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.