Coastal Development: Foster Center vs Providence
How do coastal development rules compare between Foster Center, RI and Providence, RI?
Foster Center and Providence have similar restriction levels.
Foster Center, RI
Providence County
Providence County coastal properties on Narragansett Bay fall under Rhode Island Coastal Resources Management Council (CRMC) jurisdiction under RIGL §46-23. CRMC permits (Assent) required for any work within 200 ft of tidal water. Setbacks tied to erosion rates.
View full Foster Center rules →Providence, RI
Providence County
Development within 200 feet of Narragansett Bay tidal waters in Providence requires a Rhode Island Coastal Resources Management Council (CRMC) assent in addition to city permits, covering shoreline construction, docks, and fill activities.
View full Providence rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Foster Center | Providence |
|---|---|---|
| Agency | RI CRMC (RIGL §46-23) | - |
| Jurisdiction | 200 ft of coastal feature | 200 ft from tidal waters |
| SFH Setback | 30 × erosion rate | - |
| Public Access | RI Constitution Art. I §17 | - |
| SLR Standard | 7-9 ft by 2100 | - |
| Regulator | - | RI CRMC |
| Document | - | Coastal assent required |
| Daily fine cap | - | Up to $2,500 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Foster Center FAQ
Do I need a CRMC permit to build near Narragansett Bay?
Yes. Any development, construction, alteration, or filling within 200 feet of a coastal feature requires a CRMC Assent. Minor projects may qualify for a Category A expedited review.
What is Rhode Island's shoreline access rule?
Article I §17 of the RI Constitution guarantees public rights to the shore including passage, fishing, and gathering seaweed. The 2023 Shoreline Access Act (RIGL §46-23.5) clarified the public has rights up to 10 feet landward of the recognizable high tide line.
Providence FAQ
Does CRMC apply to inland Providence?
Only within 200 feet of coastal features. Most of central and western Providence falls outside CRMC jurisdiction and only needs city permits.
Can I build a private dock on the Providence River?
Only with a CRMC assent. The Providence Harbor is Type 6 commercial waters where private recreational docks face strict review.
Compare other topics
See how Foster Center and Providence compare on other ordinance categories.
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