Massachusetts § 38 - Laying out, construction and maintenance of trails or paths in state forests; use by owners of adjoining land
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 38 — Laying out, construction and maintenance of trails or paths in state forests; use by owners of adjoining land, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 38. Laying out, construction and maintenance of trails or paths in state forests; use by owners of adjoining land
Section 38. The commissioner may lay out, construct and maintain trails or paths through or over lands in state forests and in public reservations and trails or paths leading to important mountains and other objects and places of special interest and beauty and he may connect such trails or paths in order to make them continuous so far as practicable. The commissioner on behalf of the commonwealth may purchase such lands or easements therein as may be necessary for the aforesaid purposes. He may post such trails or paths, erect signs thereon and construct suitable rest camps or shelters at appropriate places. He may by special permit in writing allow portions of such trails or paths to be enclosed and used by the owner of adjoining land, for any use not interfering with public passage on foot, during the whole or any part of the year upon such conditions as the commissioner may prescribe and such permits may be revoked at his pleasure. The commonwealth shall not be liable for injury or damage sustained on such trails or paths.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 38
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 38 cover?
Section 38 ("Laying out, construction and maintenance of trails or paths in state forests; use by owners of adjoining land") 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.