Table of Contents

Accessory Dwelling Units

Scenic View Protection

Transfer of Development Rights

Accessory Dwelling Units

Rhode Island state law requires all localities to permit one accessory dwelling unit (ADU) by-right for each owner-occupied single-family dwelling, provided the ADU is occupied by a family member with a disability or who is over the age of 62 (§45-27-37(e)). Its definition of ADU requires a familial relationship between principal residence and ADU occupants and owner-occupancy of the principal residence. The ADU must either be an attached or internal ADU or internal to an existing accessory structure on the property, such as a barn or garage (§45-24-31(2)).

Scenic View Protection

Rhode Island’s zoning enabling statute recognizes natural, historic, cultural and scenic character protection as a purpose for zoning regulation (§45-24-30). Additionally, the state’s Comprehensive Planning and Land Use Act requires comprehensive plans to identify scenic views (§45-22.2-6).

Transfer of Development Rights

Rhode Island’s zoning enabling statute authorizes cities and towns to establish a transfer of development rights program within or between designated zoning districts (§45-24-33(b)(2)).