Providence pairs its STR rules with Rhode Island HB 9275 / A8284, which sets a statewide registration framework while leaving cities room to add owner-occupancy and primary-residence requirements.
Rhode Island HB 9275 and A8284 created a partial-preemption short-term rental framework requiring statewide registration of hosted lodging. Providence layers local rules on top, including documentation that the unit is the operator's primary residence or that the owner holds a non-owner-occupied permit class. Hosts typically must show a Rhode Island driver's license, voter registration, or utility bills tied to the address. Non-owner-occupied STRs may face stricter zoning review, especially in single-family districts. The city tracks compliance through registration renewals and complaint-driven inspections.
Misrepresenting primary residence status can result in revocation of STR registration, civil fines, and disqualification from re-registering for a defined period.
Providence, RI
Providence short-term rentals must comply with city occupancy limits tied to bedroom count and the Rhode Island building/fire code, with two guests per bedro...
Providence, RI
Providence requires short-term rental operators to obtain a Lodging House License from the Department of Inspections and Standards. Owner-occupied STRs are a...
See how Providence's primary-residence-only rule rules stack up against other locations.
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