Homesteading in Rhode Island
Explore 5 counties and state-level regulations for homesteaders in Rhode Island.
Rhode Island uses a Riparian water rights system , enforces statewide IRC building codes , and requires a carry permit. The effective property tax rate is 1.4%.
State Regulations
Water Rights
System: Riparian
Follows regulated riparian doctrine. Water use in excess of 10,000 gallons per day requires a permit from the Water Resources Board.
Statute: R.I. Gen. Laws § 46-15.7-1 et seq.
Building Codes
Statewide IRC: Yes (statewide)
State Building Code applies statewide and is mandatory. Based on IRC for residential. Building Commissioner in each municipality enforces.
Statute: R.I. Gen. Laws § 23-27.3-100.0 et seq.
Gun Laws
Open Carry: Yes
Constitutional Carry: No
Concealed carry requires a license from the attorney general or local police chief. Open carry legal without a permit. No permit to purchase required.
Statute: R.I. Gen. Laws § 11-47-11; R.I. Gen. Laws § 11-47-18
Right to Farm
Protected: Yes
Protects farming operations from nuisance suits if the farm has been in operation for at least three years and was not a nuisance when it began.
Statute: R.I. Gen. Laws § 2-23-1 et seq.
Counties in Rhode Island
5 counties · Click column headers to sort
| County | Population | Median Home | Property Tax | Growing Days | Overall Risk |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bristol County | 50,658 | $443,700 | $6,403 | 84 | Very Low |
| Kent County | 170,168 | $306,000 | $4,833 | 84 | Relatively Low |
| Newport County | 85,442 | $503,700 | $5,213 | 84 | Very Low |
| Providence County | 657,984 | $310,500 | $4,588 | 83 | Relatively Moderate |
| Washington County | 129,998 | $436,000 | $4,815 | 85 | Relatively Low |
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