Massachusetts § 7 - Jurisdiction over land acquired by United States; reversion
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 7 — Jurisdiction over land acquired by United States; reversion, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 7. Jurisdiction over land acquired by United States; reversion
Section 7. The United States shall have jurisdiction over any tract of land within the commonwealth acquired by it in fee for the following purposes: for the use of the United States bureau of fisheries, or for the erection of a marine hospital, custom office, post office, life-saving station, lighthouse, beacon light, range light, light keeper's dwelling or signal for navigators; provided, that a suitable plan of such tract has been or shall be filed in the office of the state secretary within one year after such acquisition of title thereto. But the commonwealth shall retain concurrent jurisdiction with the United States in and over any such tract of land to the extent that all civil and criminal processes issuing under authority of the commonwealth may be executed thereon as if there had been no cession of jurisdiction, and exclusive jurisdiction over any such tract shall revest in the commonwealth if such tract ceases to be used by the United States for such public purpose.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 7
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 7 cover?
Section 7 ("Jurisdiction over land acquired by United States; reversion") 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 § 7?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 7" (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 § 7 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.