Minnesota § 561.04 - TRESPASS; TREBLE DAMAGES

Full text of Minnesota Minnesota Statutes § 561.04 — TRESPASS; TREBLE DAMAGES, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 561.04. TRESPASS; TREBLE DAMAGES

Whoever without lawful authority cuts down or carries off any wood, underwood, tree, or timber, or girdles or otherwise injures any tree, timber, or shrub, on the land of another person, or in the street or highway in front of any person's house, city lot, or cultivated grounds, or on the commons or public grounds of any city or town, or in the street or highway in front thereof, is liable in a civil action to the owner of such land, or to such city or town, for treble the amount of damages which may be assessed therefor, unless upon the trial it appears that the trespass was casual or involuntary, or that the defendant had probable cause to believe that the land on which the trespass was committed was the defendant's, or that of the person in whose service or by whose direction the act was done, in which case judgment shall be given for only the single damages assessed. This section shall not authorize the recovery of more than the just value of timber taken from uncultivated woodland for the repair of a public highway or bridge upon or adjoining the land.

History:

(9585) RL s 4449; 1973 c 123 art 5 s 7; 1986 c 444

Official Publication of the State of Minnesota
Revisor of Statutes

Frequently Asked Questions About Minnesota § 561.04

What does Minnesota Statutes § 561.04 cover?

Section 561.04 ("TRESPASS; TREBLE DAMAGES") is part of the Minnesota Statutes, the codified statutory law of Minnesota. 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 Minnesota § 561.04?

A common citation format is "Minnesota Statutes § 561.04" (Minnesota). 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 Minnesota law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Minnesota official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Minnesota attorney.

How does Minnesota § 561.04 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Minnesota 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 Minnesota.