Providence, RI Landscaping Rules: Artificial Turf (2026)

No Rhode Island statute specifically regulates residential artificial turf. Installation is governed by local zoning under RIGL §45-24 and stormwater management rules. Providence, Cranston, and Pawtucket allow synthetic turf for residential lawns without a specific permit, though grading work may trigger a building permit. Stormwater considerations are significant: turf on compacted base can increase runoff, potentially triggering review under RIGL §45-61 (Soil Erosion and Sedimentation Control) for disturbances over 10,000 sq ft or RIDEM stormwater rules. Historic District Commissions in Providence (College Hill, Armory, Broadway) and other RI historic districts may restrict synthetic turf as inappropriate for district character under RIGL §45-24.1. Coastal Resources Management Council (CRMC) jurisdiction under RIGL §46-23 applies near Narragansett Bay and tidal waters — CRMC disfavors artificial turf in coastal buffer zones due to microplastic runoff and heat island concerns. HOAs are rare in Providence County's older housing stock but may restrict turf in newer developments. PFAS concerns have been raised by RI environmental advocates, and RIGL §23-24.9 (Toxic Packaging) touches on related issues but does not specifically regulate turf.