Rhode Island § 2-23-5 - Right to Farm
Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 2-23-5 — Right to Farm, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 2-23-5. Right to Farm
R.I. Gen. Laws § 2-23-5
§ 2-23-5. Nuisance actions against agricultural operations.
(a) No agricultural operation, as defined in this chapter is found to be a public or private nuisance, due to alleged objectionable:
(1) Odor from livestock, manure, fertilizer, or feed, occasioned by generally accepted farming procedures;
(2) Noise from livestock or farm equipment used in normal, generally accepted farming procedures;
(3) Dust created during plowing or cultivation operations;
(4) Use of pesticides, rodenticides, insecticides, herbicides, or fungicides.
This provision pertains only to nuisance actions under chapter 1 of title 10.
(b) In addition, no city or town ordinance adopted under § 23-19.2-1 shall be enforced against any agricultural operation as defined in this chapter. In addition, no rule or regulation of the department of transportation shall be enforced against any agricultural operation to prevent it from placing a seasonal directional sign or display on the state’s right-of-way, on the condition that that sign or display conforms with the local zoning ordinance, and that sign or display is promptly removed by the agricultural operation upon the conclusion of the season for which said sign or display was placed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1982, ch. 10, § 1; P.L. 1990, ch. 145, § 1.
Source: official Rhode Island text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 2-23-5
What does Rhode Island General Laws § 2-23-5 cover?
Section 2-23-5 ("Right to Farm") 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 § 2-23-5?
A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 2-23-5" (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 § 2-23-5 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.