Massachusetts § 5B - Agricultural land
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 5B — Agricultural land, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 5B. Agricultural land
Section 5B. No property used for agriculture or farming as defined in section one A of chapter one hundred and twenty-eight shall be taken without the consent of the owner thereof, nor shall an easement be taken on such property without such consent, except after a hearing by the board at which such owner shall be entitled to be heard and allowed to introduce evidence that other land not used for agriculture or farming, as so defined, and without occupied buildings situated thereon is available for the public use for which it is intended to take his property. If such evidence is introduced and accepted by the board as valid, the board shall exempt said property from the taking. The provisions of this section shall not apply to takings in behalf of the commonwealth, takings for highway purposes, nor to takings authorized by the department of telecommunications and energy, except that in such takings notices of hearings required by section seventy-two of chapter one hundred and sixty-four shall be sent to all interested parties.
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 5B
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 5B cover?
Section 5B ("Agricultural 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 § 5B?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 5B" (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 § 5B 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.