Massachusetts § 38 - Farmers; permit to trap and kill birds
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 38 — Farmers; permit to trap and kill birds, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 38. Farmers; permit to trap and kill birds
Section 38. Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the director may, upon application of a farmer, as defined in section one A of chapter one hundred and twenty-eight, grant a permit to trap live, and thereafter destroy, birds that are destroying agricultural crops or endangering the health of livestock, poultry or fur bearing animals. Each applicant shall state the type of trap to be used, the location of each such trap and the period within which he intends to use such trap, and such other information as the director may deem necessary. Each application shall be accompanied by a fee, the amount of which shall be determined annually by the commissioner of administration under the provision of section three B of chapter seven for the filing thereof. The farmer shall mark each trap with his name and address and the number of the permit issued to him by the director, and the farmer or his agent shall check each such trap twice daily. The director shall issue rules and regulations relative to the type of traps and kinds of birds which may be trapped, and such other rules and regulations as he may deem necessary for the protection of song and game birds. The director and his agents may, for the purpose of inspecting such traps, enter upon or pass through or over private lands and property whether or not covered by water.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 38
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 38 cover?
Section 38 ("Farmers; permit to trap and kill birds") 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 § 38?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 38" (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 § 38 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.