Massachusetts § 31 - Sale of pews for taxes
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 31 — Sale of pews for taxes, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 31. Sale of pews for taxes
Section 31. The treasurer, at least three weeks before the time of the sale of a pew for taxes, shall post a notice of the intended sale on the principal outer door of the meeting house, stating the number of the pew, if any; the name of the owner or occupant, if known; and the amount of the tax due thereon; and if any part of said tax remains unpaid at the time of sale, he shall sell the pew by public auction to the highest bidder and shall execute and deliver to the purchaser a bill of sale thereof. The money arising from the sale, in excess of the taxes and reasonable incidental charges, shall be paid by the treasurer to the former owner of the pew.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 31
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 31 cover?
Section 31 ("Sale of pews for taxes") 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.