Accessory Structures in Providence, RI (2026)
3 verified accessory structures rules for Providence, Rhode Island, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
ADU Rules
Providence allows one accessory dwelling unit per lot in every residential district, capped at 900 square feet for a studio or one-bedroom and 1,200 for a two-bedroom, with short-term rentals barred.
Providence Accessory Dwelling Unit Rules
Some RestrictionsProvidence Zoning Ordinance § 1302.U
One accessory dwelling unit per lot shall be permitted in all residential districts under the following circumstances: An accessory dwelling unit may be located within the principal structure, in a permitted outbuilding, or in a detached garage... An accessory dwelling unit is limited in size to whichever is less: 60% of the gross floor area of the principal dwelling, or 900 sf GFA for a studio...
ADU Rental Restrictions
Providence allows one accessory dwelling unit per lot in residential districts, but the zoning ordinance flatly bars renting that ADU out short-term.
Providence Bans Short-Term ADU Rentals
Significant Restrictions§ 1302.U
One accessory dwelling unit per lot shall be permitted in all residential districts under the following circumstances: 1. An accessory dwelling unit may be located within the principal structure, in a permitted outbuilding, or in a detached garage per Section 1302.J. 2. The accessory dwelling unit shall be attached to a foundation and shall not be mobile. ...
Shed & Carport Rules
Providence caps detached sheds and other accessory structures at 10 feet high at the lot line, requires a 3-foot setback, and bars them from front yards.
Providence Shed Size and Setback Rules
Some RestrictionsProvidence Zoning Ordinance § 1302.A
The maximum height of any detached accessory structure is 10 feet at the lot line, then an additional one foot in height for each one foot of additional setback to a maximum of 20 feet and two stories, unless otherwise permitted or restricted by this Ordinance. Accessory structures permitted in rear, interior, or corner side yards shall be at least three feet from any lot line, unless otherwise...