Massachusetts § 34D - Posting notices of penalties for driving while under influence and driving while drinking from open container of alcohol

Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 34D — Posting notices of penalties for driving while under influence and driving while drinking from open container of alcohol, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 34D. Posting notices of penalties for driving while under influence and driving while drinking from open container of alcohol

Section 34D. Any establishment which sells alcoholic beverages to be drunk on the premises, shall post a copy of the penalties set forth in subdivision (1) of section twenty-four of chapter ninety for driving under the influence. Any establishment which sells alcoholic beverages not to be drunk on the premises shall post a copy of the penalties set forth in section twenty-four I of said chapter ninety for operating a motor vehicle while drinking from an open container of alcohol. Said copies shall be posted conspicuously by the owner or person in charge of the respective establishment, and whoever violates this provision shall be punished by a fine of not more than fifty dollars. Any person unlawfully removing a copy so posted shall be punished by a fine of fifty dollars. Said copies, printed in letters not less in size than eighteen point capitals, boldface, shall be prepared by the commission and distributed to business establishments which sell, serve or otherwise dispense alcohol or alcoholic beverages to the general public.

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 34D

What does Massachusetts General Laws § 34D cover?

Section 34D ("Posting notices of penalties for driving while under influence and driving while drinking from open container of alcohol") 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 § 34D?

A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 34D" (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 § 34D 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.