Providence, RI Accessory Structures: ADU Owner Occupancy (2026)

Under R.I. Gen. Laws Section 45-24-37(j), as substantially amended by HB 7062Aa (2024), one ADU per lot is allowed by right in any residentially zoned lot in Providence under several circumstances: (1) on an owner-occupied property as a reasonable accommodation for family members with disabilities; (2) on lots of 20,000 sq ft or larger where the primary use is residential; or (3) where the proposed ADU is located entirely within the existing footprint of the principal or accessory structure and does not expand that footprint. Providence's February 2025 ADU Guidelines implement these pathways. The state law restricts what Providence can require: the City cannot revoke ADU status on transfer of title, cannot mandate more than one off-street parking space per bedroom, and cannot prohibit ADU rental for long-term residential use. Whether full general non-owner-occupied ADUs (outside the three by-right categories) are permitted depends on the specific zoning district and configuration; consult Providence Inspection and Standards before relying on a non-owner-occupied detached ADU.