Rhode Island state law does not restrict fence materials. Providence County has no county government. Material restrictions are set by individual municipalities through zoning codes. Most cities in Providence County prohibit barbed wire and razor wire in residential areas. Historic districts may impose additional material and design requirements.
Providence County zoning ordinance specifies approved fence materials. Residential zones typically allow wood, vinyl, composite, wrought iron, and aluminum. Chain-link may be restricted in front yards. Barbed wire and razor wire are prohibited in residential zones. Rhode Island has numerous historic districts where Historic District Commission approval is required. New England stone walls may have special protections. The finished side of the fence must typically face outward toward the neighbor.
Non-compliant materials: code enforcement notice. May require replacement. Historic district violation: additional penalties and fines.
Providence, RI
Providence has no general ordinance restricting lawn ornaments, statues, or yard decorations on private residential property. Decorations must stay within pr...
Providence, RI
Providence has no specific ordinance regulating inflatable holiday displays on private residential property. Inflatables must remain on private property and ...
Providence, RI
Providence does not have a dedicated ordinance restricting residential holiday lighting. General electrical safety and nuisance standards apply. Permanent ex...
Providence, RI
Permanent outdoor kitchens in Providence require permits from the Department of Inspection and Standards when they involve gas, plumbing, electrical, or stru...
Providence, RI
Providence treats wood, pellet, and charcoal smokers the same as charcoal grills under NFPA 1 Section 10.11.7 (Rhode Island State Fire Code). Use on balconie...
Providence, RI
Rhode Island has adopted NFPA 1 (the National Fire Protection Association Uniform Fire Code, 2018 edition) under R.I. Gen. Laws Section 23-28.1 as the State ...
See how Providence's material restrictions rules stack up against other locations.
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