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Natural Heritage and Endangered Species

Natural Heritage LogoMassachusetts Endangered Species Act (MESA) Penalties

From 321 CMR 10.06

  • Unauthorized taking, possession, and sale of species on the State or Federal lists. Any person who violates the provisions of the first paragraph of M.G.L. c. 131A, § 2 or 321 CMR 10.04 or 10.11 through 10.24 shall be punished by a fine of not less than $500 or imprisonment for not more than 90 days or both such fine and imprisonment. Upon a second or subsequent conviction such person shall be punished by a fine of not less than $5,000 nor more than $10,000 or by imprisonment for not more than 180 days or both such fine and imprisonment.

  • Civil Penalties. Any person who violates M.G.L. c. 131A, s. 2 or any rule or regulation adopted thereunder shall be subject to a civil assessment not to exceed $10,000 for each such violation.

  • Multiple Violations. The commission of an act prohibited by M.G.L. c 131A or any rule or regulation adopted thereunder with respect to each individual animal or plant, or part thereof, shall constitute a separate offense.