Rhode Island § 46-20-1 - Ditches and Drains
Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 46-20-1 — Ditches and Drains, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 46-20-1. Ditches and Drains
R.I. Gen. Laws § 46-20-1
§ 46-20-1. Petition to drain across lands of another.
Whenever the owner or owners of any lands in this state may wish to drain the lands, and cannot agree with the proprietor or proprietors of the adjacent land or lands to be affected, as to the mode of draining the land or lands and the damages consequent thereon, the owner or owners may prefer a petition to the town council of the town in which the lands are situated, for power to drain the land or lands across the lands of other proprietors. The petition shall set forth the course of the proposed ditch or drain, and the names of the proprietors whose lands are to be affected thereby, and the petitioner shall file a bond in such sum as the town council shall direct, conditioned to pay all costs of the proceedings in case it shall be determined inexpedient to construct the ditch or drain.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 76, § 1; G.L. 1909, ch. 90, § 1; G.L. 1923, ch. 102, § 1; G.L. 1938,
ch. 350, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 46-20-1.
Source: official Rhode Island text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 46-20-1
What does Rhode Island General Laws § 46-20-1 cover?
Section 46-20-1 ("Ditches and Drains") 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 § 46-20-1?
A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 46-20-1" (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 § 46-20-1 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.