Rhode Island § 20-16-2 - Furbearing Animals

Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 20-16-2 — Furbearing Animals, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 20-16-2. Furbearing Animals

R.I. Gen. Laws § 20-16-2

§ 20-16-2. Landowners — Nuisance furbearers.

Any person owning or leasing and operating any property, and any employee of that person, may, while on that person’s premises, kill and take a furbearer that is worrying, wounding, or killing the domestic animals or livestock on the property, or destroying or mutilating agricultural crops or fruit trees on the property; or otherwise causing clear-and-immediate economic damage to any property belonging to that person; or creating a potential health hazard; provided that, except in the case of rabbits, the carcass of the furbearer shall be presented to the department within twenty-four (24) hours of taking. The animal may then be possessed by the landowner or lessee for the use of the immediate family of the landowner or lessee, and shall not be sold or offered for sale, except by special permission of the director.

History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 197, § 3; P.L. 1994, ch. 248, § 1.

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 20-16-2

What does Rhode Island General Laws § 20-16-2 cover?

Section 20-16-2 ("Furbearing Animals") 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 § 20-16-2?

A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 20-16-2" (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 § 20-16-2 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.