Rhode Island Statewide Rule

Rhode Island Accessory Dwelling Unit State Law

Few RestrictionsApplies statewide across Rhode Island (2026)

Rhode Island state law (R.I. Gen. Laws § 45-24-37) requires municipalities to permit accessory dwelling units by right on owner-occupied lots, preempting more restrictive local zoning rules across all cities and towns.

Key Facts

Statute: R.I. Gen. Laws § 45-24-37
Permitted Use: By right statewide
Owner Occupancy: Principal unit only
Extra Parking: Cannot be required
Effective: 2022, expanded 2024

Source: Rhode Island General Assembly

Full Breakdown

Effective 2022 and strengthened by the 2024 housing package, Rhode Island law mandates that all municipalities allow at least one ADU on owner-occupied residential lots as a permitted use, subject only to building, fire, and health codes. Municipalities cannot require additional parking, owner-occupancy beyond the principal dwelling, or family-relationship restrictions. ADUs are permitted in existing structures or as additions, and short-term rentals of ADUs may be regulated. The state law overrides conflicting local zoning ordinances and applies uniformly statewide to advance Rhode Island's housing goals.

Violations & Penalties

Municipal denial of a compliant ADU application is appealable to the zoning board and Superior Court; courts have invalidated noncompliant local rules under state preemption.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a Rhode Island city ban accessory dwelling units?

No. State law preempts local prohibitions and requires every municipality to allow at least one ADU on owner-occupied lots that meet building and health codes.

Can my town require extra parking for my ADU?

No. Rhode Island law specifically prohibits municipalities from imposing additional off-street parking requirements for accessory dwelling units beyond what applies to the primary dwelling.

Do I have to be related to the ADU occupant?

No. The 2022 and 2024 reforms eliminated family-member restrictions; ADUs may be rented to anyone, though short-term rental regulation remains permitted locally.

Sources

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Full Breakdown

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a Rhode Island city ban accessory dwelling units?

No. State law preempts local prohibitions and requires every municipality to allow at least one ADU on owner-occupied lots that meet building and health codes.

Can my town require extra parking for my ADU?

No. Rhode Island law specifically prohibits municipalities from imposing additional off-street parking requirements for accessory dwelling units beyond what applies to the primary dwelling.

Do I have to be related to the ADU occupant?

No. The 2022 and 2024 reforms eliminated family-member restrictions; ADUs may be rented to anyone, though short-term rental regulation remains permitted locally.