RIGL 45-24-27 (zoning enabling act) allows municipalities to require landscaping, open space, and density controls. Providence County has no county government and imposes no county-level landscaping requirements. Individual municipalities set landscaping standards through their zoning ordinances — requirements vary from basic property maintenance to detailed tree canopy and native planting requirements in some communities.
Providence County increasingly supports native plant landscaping and xeriscaping for water conservation and habitat restoration. Some jurisdictions offer rebates for lawn replacement with drought-tolerant plants. HOAs in many states can no longer prohibit xeriscaping or native plant gardens. Municipal water restrictions may effectively require low-water landscaping for new developments. Native plant lists are typically available from local cooperative extension offices. Invasive species removal may be required or incentivized.
Varies by jurisdiction. HOA fines for non-compliance may be unenforceable if state law protects xeriscaping rights.
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 native plants rules stack up against other locations.
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