Rhode IslandH73712026 Regular SessionHouse

AN ACT RELATING TO TOWNS AND CITIES -- ZONING ORDINANCES .

Sponsored By: Mary Ann Shallcross Smith (Democratic)

Signed by Governor

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.

Fewer wetland and septic setbacks for permits

Cities and towns cannot apply their existing wetland buffer or septic-system setback rules to your development, construction, or rehab permit. They also cannot adopt new local buffers or setback distances near freshwater or coastal wetlands, or between septic systems and those wetlands. Other local zoning rules still apply. The ban on new local setbacks takes effect now.

Cities must allow 12-child family child care

If you run a family child care home licensed by the Department of Human Services, your city cannot cap you below 12 children at one time. State DHS rules still apply. This helps providers add slots and gives families more options.

State review of local septic and wetland rules

Any local zoning rule that sets standards for where or how to build or maintain on-site wastewater systems, or that sets wetland standards, must be sent to the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management for technical approval before adoption. Cities and towns must update their ordinances within 12 months after the related state regulations take effect. This creates a required approval step and a firm timetable for municipalities.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Mary Ann Shallcross Smith
Democratic • House

Cosponsors

Mia A. Ackerman
Democratic • House
Grace Diaz
Democratic • House
Susan R. Donovan
Democratic • House
Deborah A. Fellela
Democratic • House
Kathleen A. Fogarty
Democratic • House
Raymond A. Hull
Democratic • House
Joseph M. McNamara
Democratic • House
Mary Messier
Democratic • House
Scott A. Slater
Democratic • House

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 69 • No: 0

House vote • 4/30/2026

ZONING ORDINANCES PASSAGE