Find the local rules for land and development
Every Rhode Island city and town has its own rules for land use, buildings, and development. Find your municipality to browse the documents available here — free, with no account required.
Map of Rhode Island
39 cities and townsSelect a municipality to see what is available. The A–Z list beside the map provides the same information.
All cities and towns, A–Z
Documents are currently available for 20 of Rhode Island's 39 municipalities.
Unofficial copy. The municipal clerk maintains the official record.
Municipal land use basics
What is a zoning ordinance?
A zoning ordinance is the local law that regulates how land and buildings may be used — including where different uses are allowed and requirements such as building height, setbacks, lot size, and parking. Every Rhode Island city and town adopts its own.
What are land development and subdivision regulations?
These regulations govern how land may be divided and developed, including the review of new lots, roads, drainage, utilities, and other site improvements. They establish the process and standards used to review development proposals.
What is an amendment?
An amendment is a proposed change to an ordinance or regulation. Amendments are considered through a public process and do not become part of the adopted rules unless and until they are approved.