Massachusetts § 64 - Uniform beach warning and safety flag program

Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 64 — Uniform beach warning and safety flag program, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 64. Uniform beach warning and safety flag program

Section 64. (a) The department of conservation and recreation shall create a state uniform beach warning and safety flag program to be used at all public coastal beaches maintained and guarded by the department. The program shall provide for a uniform size, shape, color and definition for each warning and safety flag deemed necessary by the department. The program shall warn the public of drowning and injury hazards presented by changes in tide and surf conditions.

(b) If the department defines any safety flags as warnings of health hazards presented by the quality of the beach water, such definitions shall be based on water quality testing procedures that ensure the warnings are timely, frequently updated and reflect, to the maximum extent feasible, the actual water conditions at the time the flags are posted and for the duration of their posting.

(c) A city or town having jurisdiction over a public beach along the coast may utilize at such beach the state uniform beach warning and safety flag program created by the department of conservation and recreation. Subsection (a) shall take effect in a city with a Plan D or Plan E charter by a vote of the city council upon submission by the city manager and in all other cities by a vote of the city council with the approval of the mayor and in a town with a town council, by vote of the town council and in all other towns, by a vote of the town meeting.

Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 64

What does Massachusetts General Laws § 64 cover?

Section 64 ("Uniform beach warning and safety flag program") 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 § 64?

A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 64" (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 § 64 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.