Massachusetts § 31A - Transportation by motor vehicle of personal property; rules and regulations

Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 31A — Transportation by motor vehicle of personal property; rules and regulations, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 31A. Transportation by motor vehicle of personal property; rules and regulations

Section 31A. The department after a public hearing may make, and may alter, rescind or add to, rules and regulations for the reasonable and proper control and regulation of the transportation by motor vehicle of personal property over the ways of this commonwealth, except ways under the control of the metropolitan district commission. Said rules and regulations shall cover, among other matters which the department may deem necessary or desirable, the fixing of routes with respect to the physical capacity of such ways to carry traffic; the establishment of the maximum weight of loads per commercial motor vehicle and per inch of tire in contact with the surface of such ways; the maximum dimensions of loads; and the regulation of the rate of speed of such vehicles over such ways. Said rules and regulations and any changes therein shall be subject to approval, and shall take effect, in the manner provided by section six of chapter sixteen. Any person convicted of a violation of any rule or regulation made under this section shall be punished by a fine of not less than one hundred nor more than one thousand dollars and in case of a second or subsequent offense, the registration of the vehicle or vehicles involved shall be suspended for such length of time as the registrar shall determine.

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 31A

What does Massachusetts General Laws § 31A cover?

Section 31A ("Transportation by motor vehicle of personal property; rules and regulations") 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 § 31A?

A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 31A" (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 § 31A 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.