Massachusetts § 4A - Administrative inspections
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 4A — Administrative inspections, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 4A. Administrative inspections
Section 4A. The director, his assistants, an environmental police officer or deputy environmental police officer or a member of the state police may conduct an administrative inspection in accordance with the provisions of this section of commercial fishing vessels and wholesale and retail fish businesses commercially licensed pursuant to this chapter.
Administrative inspections of a commercial fishing vessel may extend only to the fishing gear, nets, fish on board and the fish holds and only during times in which the commercial fishing vessel is conducting fishing operations, landing fish on board the vessel or off-loading at any pier or wharf.
Administrative inspections of a wholesale or retail fish business may extend only to the fish maintained or processed on the premises, to tanks, refrigerators, freezers, walk-in fish storage closets or other places where fish may reasonably be stored and only during times in which the business is open to the public.
Any fishing gear, nets, or fish found in violation of this chapter or any rule or regulation of the director or the commissioner of the department of public health may be seized and forfeited to the Commonwealth in accordance with chapter two hundred and fifty-seven.
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 4A
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 4A cover?
Section 4A ("Administrative inspections") 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 § 4A?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 4A" (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 § 4A 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.