Rhode Island Statewide Rule

Rhode Island EV Charging Through State Building Code Adoption

Some RestrictionsApplies statewide across Rhode Island (2026)

Rhode Island regulates EV charging infrastructure through the State Building Code under RIGL Chapter 23-27.3 and state utility law, with statewide standards municipalities must apply uniformly.

Key Facts

Statute: RIGL 23-27.3
Code: Statewide SBC adoption
Permit Issuer: Local building official
Standard: NEC and SBC floor

Source: Rhode Island General Assembly

Full Breakdown

Under RIGL Chapter 23-27.3, the Rhode Island State Building Code is adopted statewide and includes electrical and energy provisions governing EV Supply Equipment installation. The State Building Commissioner sets uniform requirements for permitted EV chargers, conduit, and panel capacity. State utility law (RIGL Title 39) authorizes Rhode Island Energy programs for EV infrastructure incentives. Municipalities issue permits but apply the statewide code as a floor and cannot prohibit code-compliant charger installation in residential or commercial settings.

Violations & Penalties

Non-compliant installation can result in failed inspection, denial of certificate, and orders to remove or correct equipment under RIGL 23-27.3-127.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my Rhode Island town prohibit a Level 2 home charger?

No. Code-compliant residential EV charging is a permitted electrical installation under the statewide State Building Code; cities issue the electrical permit but cannot ban it.

Are commercial EV chargers required by Rhode Island law?

The State Building Code's energy provisions and updates may require EV-ready conduit and panel capacity in new commercial construction; specific percentages are set by code amendments adopted statewide.

Sources

RIGL Chapter 23-27.3

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