Some statutes require publication of legal notices in a newspaper of general circulation. G.L. c. 40A, § 5 is just one example of many. As local newspapers disappear, the cost of publication rises, and more people turn to the Internet for their news, some communities have asked for relief from the Legislature to allow online publication as legally sufficient notice in lieu of publication in a newspaper. The towns of Lincoln and Arlington are two municipalities that have recently obtained special acts to permit such online legal notice. We encourage the Legislature to consider adoption of a general law to this effect, but until one is adopted, your municipality may consider seeking relief through a special act.Â
