Rhode Island Floodplain Building Standards Through State Building Code

Under RIGL Chapter 23-27.3 (State Building Code), Rhode Island adopts a single statewide building code, including SBC-1 with floodplain provisions tied to the NFIP and ASCE 24. The Rhode Island State Building Commissioner promulgates the code, and municipal building officials enforce it locally. Flood-resistant construction, freeboard, and elevation requirements apply uniformly across all communities. Coastal flood zones are also regulated by CRMC under RIGL 46-23. Local floodplain ordinances must meet or exceed NFIP and state code minimums.

Non-compliant construction in flood zones can result in denial of certificate of occupancy, NFIP insurance penalties, and orders to elevate or remove structures.