Massachusetts § 5 - Removal of gates, rails, bars or fences upon or across ways
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 5 — Removal of gates, rails, bars or fences upon or across ways, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 5. Removal of gates, rails, bars or fences upon or across ways
Section 5. Any person may remove gates, rails, bars or fences which are upon or across a public or private way legally laid out, unless they have been placed there to prevent the spread of disease dangerous to the public health, or unless they have been erected or continued by the license of the county commissioners or of the selectmen or road commissioners or of the person for whose use such private way was laid out. A person aggrieved by such removal may apply to the county commissioners, selectmen or road commissioners, respectively, and if upon examination it appears that such gates, rails, bars or fences were erected or continued by such license, they shall order them replaced.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 5
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 5 cover?
Section 5 ("Removal of gates, rails, bars or fences upon or across ways") 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 § 5?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 5" (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 § 5 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.