Massachusetts Recreational Use Statute and Landowner Liability

Author: Commonwealth of Massachusetts; Irene Del Bono

Last Reviewed by MLTC: 06/03/2026.

Provides the current Massachusetts General Laws language for Chapter 21, Section 17C, known as the Recreational Use Statute, which limits liability for landowners who allow free public use of their land for recreation, conservation, education, research, and related purposes, except in cases of willful, wanton, or reckless conduct. Supporting PDF provides additional background and examples from related court rulings.

Resources:

  1. Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 21, Section 17C

    Current statutory language on public use of land for recreational, conservation, scientific, educational, environmental, ecological, research, religious, charitable, and related purposes, and limits on landowner liability.

    Resource: https://malegislature.gov/Laws/GeneralLaws/PartI/TitleII/Chapter21/Section17C

  2. Recreational Use Shields Owners from Liability (Irene Del Bono, 01/07/2010)

    Supporting explanatory document that summarizes Massachusetts’ Recreational Use Statute and provides examples from related court rulings.

    Resource: recuseliabilityrevised.pdf