Massachusetts § 45A - Construction or alteration of dams; permit approval

Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 45A — Construction or alteration of dams; permit approval, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 45A. Construction or alteration of dams; permit approval

Section 45A. No person shall construct or materially alter a dam without applying for and receiving permit approval from the department. The approved permit shall be recorded at the registry of deeds in the county where the dam lies prior to commencement of construction. The application for a permit shall be made on such form or forms as prescribed by the commissioner. The application shall be accompanied by plans, specifications and related documents certified by a registered professional civil engineer. The commissioner shall approve or deny an application within 60 days after receipt. Construction of the dam shall be performed under the supervision of a registered professional civil engineer retained by the applicant and shall conform with the permit and its accompanying plans, specifications and related documents. The commissioner may require the engineer to submit periodic construction reports and drawings upon completion. If, after investigation of such periodic construction reports, the commissioner determines that construction does not conform to such plans and specifications, the commissioner may order the discontinuance of the project until such time as he is satisfied that the work shall be performed in accordance with such plans. The engineer shall certify, upon completion of the work, that the dam has been constructed in accordance with the permit.

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 45A

What does Massachusetts General Laws § 45A cover?

Section 45A ("Construction or alteration of dams; permit approval") 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 § 45A?

A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 45A" (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 § 45A 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.