Providence, RI Sidewalk & Pedestrian Rules: Encroachment Permits (2026)

No person, firm or corporation shall in any manner place or cause to be placed any sign, equipment, tables, chairs nor any structure, post or footing on, in, upon or under any roadway or sidewalk in the city, nor on, in, upon or under any public land (the jurisdiction over which is not legally reserved to another municipal department) without the prior written approval of the director of public works or his or her designee.(d)The director shall promulgate such rules and regulations as may be necessary to effect the purpose of this article. The director shall also provide suitable documents to give effect to this article.(e)Sidewalk excavation permits shall be issued only to the record owner of that real estate abutting the sidewalk to be repaired or replaced. Permits required for such intrusion onto the sidewalk shall also be issued only in the name of the record owner of the real estate abutting the sidewalk at which the requested intrusion shall take place; provided, however that the occupant of the realty abutting said sidewalk may be issued such permit in the event that the record owner of the realty grants said abutter authority to apply for such permit.