Rhode Island § 45-24-54 - Zoning Ordinances
Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 45-24-54 — Zoning Ordinances, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 45-24-54. Zoning Ordinances
R.I. Gen. Laws § 45-24-54
§ 45-24-54. Administration — Administration and enforcement of zoning ordinance.
(a) A zoning ordinance adopted pursuant to this chapter must provide for the administration and enforcement of its provisions pursuant to this chapter. The zoning ordinance must designate the local official or agency and specify minimum qualifications for the person or persons charged with its administration and enforcement, including: (1) The issuing of any required permits or certificates; (2) Collection of required fees; (3) Keeping of records showing the compliance of uses of land; (4) Authorizing commencement of uses or development under the provisions of the zoning ordinance; (5) Inspection of suspected violations; (6) Issuance of violation notices with required correction action; (7) Collection of fines for violations; (8) Upon written request, issue a zoning certificate or provide information to the requesting party as to the determination by the official or agency; and (9) Performing any other duties and taking any actions that may be assigned in the ordinance. A zoning certificate shall be issued within twenty (20) days of the written request. In the event that no written response is provided within that time, the requesting party has the right to appeal to the zoning board of review for the determination pursuant to § 45-24-63.
(b) The requesting party has the right to appeal the determination made in the zoning certificate pursuant to § 45-24-63.
History of Section.
P.L. 1991, ch. 307, § 1; P.L. 2025, ch. 263, § 1, effective June 27, 2025; P.L. 2025,
ch. 264, § 1, effective June 27, 2025.
Source: official Rhode Island text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 45-24-54
What does Rhode Island General Laws § 45-24-54 cover?
Section 45-24-54 ("Zoning Ordinances") 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 § 45-24-54?
A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 45-24-54" (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 § 45-24-54 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.