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Rhode Island law

Environmental Laws in Rhode Island.

Rhode Island environmental law combines federal programs (RCRA, CERCLA, CWA, CAA) with state implementation through the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM). Rhode Island is distinctive for its coastal focus — Narragansett Bay is a significant environmental asset with substantial state and federal protection. The Coastal Resources Management Council (CRMC) administers coastal-zone management. Rhode Island has been a leader on PFAS regulation, wind energy (Block Island offshore wind), and climate adaptation.

Last verified: 2026-04-17

State law

Key Rhode Island Statutes

Rhode Island Water Pollution ControlR.I. Gen. Laws § 46-12-1 et seq.

Authorizes DEM to administer NPDES permitting and state water-quality programs under delegated CWA authority.

Rhode Island Air Pollution ControlR.I. Gen. Laws § 23-23-1 et seq.

Authorizes DEM to administer air-quality programs under delegated CAA authority.

Hazardous Waste ManagementR.I. Gen. Laws § 23-19.1-1 et seq.

Regulates hazardous waste under delegated RCRA authority.

Coastal Resources Management CouncilR.I. Gen. Laws § 46-23-1 et seq.

CRMC administers Rhode Island's coastal-zone management program. Permits required for development within coastal areas. Narragansett Bay protection central to CRMC work.

Resilient Rhode Island Act / 2021 Act on ClimateR.I. Gen. Laws § 42-6.2-1 et seq.

2021 Act on Climate requires net-zero greenhouse-gas emissions by 2050 with interim targets. Establishes Executive Climate Change Coordinating Council.

PFAS RegulationR.I. Gen. Laws § 46-13.2-1 et seq. (PFAS in Drinking Water Act); other statutes

Rhode Island has enacted PFAS restrictions in drinking water and other products. Among earlier state regulatory responses.

State law

Official Sources

RI Department of Environmental ManagementRI Coastal Resources Management Council

Not Legal Advice

This page summarizes publicly available statutes and rules for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice, and no attorney-client relationship is created by viewing this content. Laws change — always verify with the primary source or consult a licensed attorney in Rhode Island.

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