Rhode Island technically permits open carry of handguns only with a license under RIGL 11-47-8, making the practice rare and effectively unavailable to most residents without permits.
Rhode Island law treats open and concealed carry similarly: under RIGL 11-47-8, carrying a pistol or revolver, openly or concealed, without a license is a felony. Practical open carry therefore requires the same license process as concealed carry. Long guns may be transported unloaded and cased without a license, but openly carrying loaded long guns in public spaces can trigger disorderly conduct charges. Brandishing or alarming display under RIGL 11-47-58.1 may result in additional charges. Schools, government buildings, and posted properties remain off-limits regardless of license type.
Carrying any pistol openly without a Rhode Island license violates RIGL 11-47-8 and constitutes a felony with significant prison exposure.
Pawtucket, RI
Pawtucket Code Chapter 286 (adopted 1972, Ord. No. 1369) prohibits noise exceeding the ambient base level by more than 5 dBA at the property line, or sound p...
Pawtucket, RI
Pawtucket's noise ordinance Chapter 286 covers animal noise under its general prohibition on unnecessary noise that disturbs the peace. Habitual barking cons...
Pawtucket, RI
Pawtucket regulates construction noise through Chapter 286 general noise provisions. Construction activities must comply with the 5 dBA above ambient standar...
Pawtucket, RI
Pawtucket regulates amplified music and events. Permits required for public amplification. Residential areas must comply with local noise ordinances.
Pawtucket, RI
Pawtucket's zoning ordinance allows storage of recreational vehicles in private garages and sheds. Tractor trailers are prohibited in residential zones. RVs ...
Pawtucket, RI
Pawtucket regulates driveway construction through building permits and zoning. Vehicles must not block sidewalks. Off-street parking requirements vary by lan...
See how Pawtucket's open carry rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.