Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 165, § 8: Opening of streets by one other than water company; consent of municipal officers

Section 8. In a town where a water company exists in active operation, no other company or person shall dig up and open the streets, lanes and highways of such town for the purpose of laying water mains and pipes therein without the consent of the aldermen or selectmen after notice, by publication or otherwise, to all parties interested and a public hearing.