Massachusetts § 31 - Destruction or injury to fishing gear
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 31 — Destruction or injury to fishing gear, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 31. Destruction or injury to fishing gear
Section 31. No person shall, without the consent of the owner, take, use, destroy, injure or molest fishing gear. The division, with the approval of the marine fisheries advisory commission and the department, shall promulgate regulations that may authorize or permit the removal of fishing gear debris from the waters under the jurisdiction of the commonwealth and the adjacent coastal shoreline; provided, however, that fishing gear debris collected by the division shall not be subject to chapter 134.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 31
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 31 cover?
Section 31 ("Destruction or injury to fishing gear") 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 § 31?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 31" (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 § 31 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.