Rhode Island Solar Permits and Easement Statute

Solar PV installations in Rhode Island require building and electrical permits issued by local building officials under R.I. Gen. Laws Chapter 23-27.3 (State Building Code), which adopts the International Residential Code and National Electrical Code. The state has issued model expedited solar permitting guidance to streamline review. R.I. Gen. Laws § 34-40-1 expressly authorizes solar easements as enforceable property interests preventing obstruction of solar access. The state Office of Energy Resources and the Public Utilities Commission govern net metering and interconnection, providing uniform standards beyond local authority.

Unpermitted solar work triggers stop-work orders, fines up to $500 per day under § 23-27.3-124.0, possible utility interconnection denial, and required electrical re-inspection at owner cost.