Warwick, RI Environmental Rules: Erosion Control (2026)

Under Section 68-3, the erosion and sediment control chapter applies to every development and re-development project in Warwick, and Section 68-4 makes it unlawful to disturb existing vegetation, grades, or contours without first applying for and receiving a building official permit. Exemptions in Section 68-4 cover additions to single- or two-family homes under 1,000 square feet that sit more than 100 feet from a watercourse on slopes under ten percent, minor excavations under four feet deep that move less than 50 cubic yards of material, and landscaping grading capped at 1,000 square feet and 18 cubic yards of fill.

To get a permit, an applicant files an erosion and sediment control plan under Section 68-5 for review by the building official, public works director, and planning director, who must act within ten days of receiving that input; failure to respond within 21 days counts as no objection. Where land disturbance sits within 100 feet of a watercourse, inside a flood hazard district, or on slopes over ten percent, Section 68-10 requires the applicant to post a performance bond sized to cover the cost of the approved erosion controls. L. 1956, § 45-23-14 for a subdivision.