Rhode Island § 46-18-2 - Damages from Milldams

Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 46-18-2 — Damages from Milldams, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 46-18-2. Damages from Milldams

R.I. Gen. Laws § 46-18-2

§ 46-18-2. Action for damages from dam — Liability of mill and dam for recovery.

Any person aggrieved or injured by the following of the pond raised by the dam, or by the stopping or raising of the water either above or below the dam, or by the backing of water under his or her land, or by the flowing out of any fall of water in his or her land by means of the dam, may commence a civil action, in the superior court for the county in which the dam is, against the owner of the dam or any precedent owner thereof, and a copy of the complaint shall be left by the officer serving the complaint in the office of the town clerk of the town in which the dam is; and the mill and milldam complained of, together with all their appurtenances and the land under and adjoining the mill and milldam, shall thenceforth be pledged and liable for the damages which may be recovered in the action.

History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 122, § 2; G.L. 1909, ch. 148, § 2; G.L. 1923, ch. 178, § 2; G.L. 1938, ch. 636, § 2; G.L. 1956, § 46-18-2.

Source: official Rhode Island text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 46-18-2

What does Rhode Island General Laws § 46-18-2 cover?

Section 46-18-2 ("Damages from Milldams") is part of the Rhode Island General Laws, the codified statutory law of Rhode Island. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Rhode Island § 46-18-2?

A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 46-18-2" (Rhode Island). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Rhode Island law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Rhode Island official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Rhode Island attorney.

How does Rhode Island § 46-18-2 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Rhode Island can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Rhode Island.