Massachusetts § 29 - Application of orders to occupant or owner; payment for cost of changes in premises; maximum expenditure

Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 29 — Application of orders to occupant or owner; payment for cost of changes in premises; maximum expenditure, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 29. Application of orders to occupant or owner; payment for cost of changes in premises; maximum expenditure

Section 29. If buildings or other premises are owned by one person and occupied by another under lease or otherwise, the orders of the marshal or head of the fire department shall apply to the occupant alone, except where the rules or orders require the making of additions to or changes in the premises themselves, such as would immediately become real estate and be the property of the owner of the premises. In such cases the rules or orders shall affect the owner and not the occupant; and unless it is otherwise agreed between the owner and the occupant, the occupant whose use of the premises has caused the making of such additions or changes, in addition to his rent or other payments, shall, after the additions or changes are made, pay a reasonable per cent of the cost thereof annually to the owner of the premises. No rule or order shall be made or enforced which requires an expenditure by the owner or occupant of more than five per cent of the last annual assessed valuation of the land and buildings to which such rule or order relates. The provisions of this section shall not apply to any rule or order adopted or issued pursuant to sections thirty–eight B through thirty–eight I.

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 29

What does Massachusetts General Laws § 29 cover?

Section 29 ("Application of orders to occupant or owner; payment for cost of changes in premises; maximum expenditure") 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 § 29?

A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 29" (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 § 29 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.