reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 2 - New Buildings and Structures › Section 23-27.3-124.6. - Boarding.

§ 23-27.3-124.6. Boarding.
(a)
Any building or structure which is ordered secure for any reason by the building official shall be boarded in accordance with the following specifications:
(b)
All openings (including doors and windows) from cellar to second floor inclusive, and all windows above the second floor leading to fire escapes, porches, or structural appurtenances on all floors must be covered from the exterior with a minimum of one-half inch (½") thick exterior grade plywood secured with screws of minimum length 15/8" or 2" (6d) ring shank nails placed 12 inches on center around the perimeter of the opening. Plywood shall be fitted so it rests snugly against the exterior frame butting up to the moulding or siding. All other windows must be secured in a similar manner with3/8” plywood from either the exterior or interior of the building.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 2 - New Buildings and Structures › Section 23-27.3-124.6.1. - Disconnection of utilities.

§ 23-27.3-124.6.1. Disconnection of utilities.
All gas, electric, water, and other services to a boarded building or structure except sewer lines shall be disconnected.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 2 - New Buildings and Structures › Section 23-27.3-124.6.2. - Removal of debris and rubbish.

§ 23-27.3-124.6.2. Removal of debris and rubbish.
Prior to boarding a building or structure, all decomposible debris and rubbish shall be removed from the premises.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 2 - New Buildings and Structures › Section 23-27.3-125.1. - Vacating buildings.

§ 23-27.3-125.1. Vacating buildings.
(a)
When, in the opinion of the building official, there is actual and immediate danger of failure or collapse of a building or structure or any part thereof which would endanger life, or when any structure or part of a structure has fallen or collapsed and life is endangered by the occupation of the building, the building official is authorized and empowered to order and require the occupants to vacate the building immediately. The building official shall cause to be posted at each entrance to the building a notice reading as follows:
(b)
It shall be unlawful for any person to enter except for the purpose of making the required repairs or of demolishing the building or structure.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 2 - New Buildings and Structures › Section 23-27.3-125.2. - Temporary safeguards.

§ 23-27.3-125.2. Temporary safeguards.
When, in the opinion of the building official, there is actual and immediate danger of collapse or failure of a building or structure or any part thereof, which would endanger life or property, the building official shall cause all necessary work to be instituted to render the building or structure or part thereof temporarily safe despite the fact that the action may occur prior to the institution of those legal procedures provided for by this code.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 2 - New Buildings and Structures › Section 23-27.3-125.3. - Closing streets.

§ 23-27.3-125.3. Closing streets.
When necessary for the public health, safety, and welfare, the building official may temporarily close sidewalks, streets, buildings, and structures and areas adjacent to any unsafe buildings, and prohibit the use thereof.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 2 - New Buildings and Structures › Section 23-27.3-125.4. - Emergency repairs.

§ 23-27.3-125.4. Emergency repairs.
For the purpose of §§ 23-27.3-124.5 — 23-27.3-125.5, the building official shall employ the necessary labor and materials to perform the required work as expeditiously as possible.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1; P.L. 1997, ch. 326, § 153.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 2 - New Buildings and Structures › Section 23-27.3-125.5. - Hazardous buildings.

§ 23-27.3-125.5. Hazardous buildings.
Whenever a building is in such hazardous condition as to create an immediate danger to the public health, safety, and welfare, either because of its potential as a fire hazard or because of the danger from collapse, the building official may board up the building immediately at the owner’s expense and may order its immediate demolition. In the event that the owner fails to comply immediately with the order to demolish then the building official may demolish the building at the expense of the owner.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1; P.L. 1990, ch. 297, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 2 - New Buildings and Structures › Section 23-27.3-125.6. - Costs of emergency repairs.

§ 23-27.3-125.6. Costs of emergency repairs.
Costs incurred in the performance of emergency work shall be paid from the municipal treasury on certificate of the building official; and the legal authority of the municipality shall institute appropriate action against the owner of the unsafe building or structure was located for the recovery of the costs.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 2 - New Buildings and Structures › Section 23-27.3-125.7. - Lien for emergency repairs.

§ 23-27.3-125.7. Lien for emergency repairs.
Whenever the owner fails to comply with an order to repair, board, or demolish a building, sign, or structure as required by the building official, and the building official has made repairs, boarded, or demolished the building, sign, or structure, reasonable costs incurred by the building official in the action shall be a lien against the real property. The lien shall be recorded with the records of land evidence of the municipality, and the lien shall incur legal interest from the date of recording. The cost incurred by the building official, plus the interest thereon, in the boarding or demolishing of a building, sign, or structure, shall be added to the amount of taxes due on the real estate where the building, sign, or structure was located. The tax collector of the city or town shall have the same powers and shall be subject to the same duties with respect to such claim as in the case of the annual taxes upon real estate, and the provisions of law relative to the collection of annual taxes, the sale or taking of land for the nonpayment thereof and the redemption of land so sold or taken shall apply to such a claim.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1; P.L. 1994, ch. 208, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 2 - New Buildings and Structures › Section 23-27.3-126.0. - Appeals from orders in regard to unsafe buildings.

§ 23-27.3-126.0. Appeals from orders in regard to unsafe buildings.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 2 - New Buildings and Structures › Section 23-27.3-126.1. - Application for review.

§ 23-27.3-126.1. Application for review.
The owner of a building or other structure or the owner’s duly authorized representative who has been served with an order pertaining to an unsafe building or other structure and a notice to make the building or other structure safe, secure, or habitable or to take down and remove the building or other structure, shall have the right, except in cases of emergency, to demand a hearing before the board of appeal if the owner deems such order to be unnecessary, improper, or unreasonable, and the demand shall be in writing with a statement of reasons therefor.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 2 - New Buildings and Structures › Section 23-27.3-126.2. - Procedure.

§ 23-27.3-126.2. Procedure.
The powers and duties of the board of appeal under this section shall be:
(1)
To inspect the building or other structure and to confirm, modify, or revoke the order of the building officials as may seem just and proper in the interest of public health, safety, and welfare.
(2)
To determine the suitable cost of reconstruction, restoration or rehabilitation in the repair of an unsafe building or other structure, in the case of a disagreement or dispute in relation thereto.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 2 - New Buildings and Structures › Section 23-27.3-126.3. - Findings.

§ 23-27.3-126.3. Findings.
(a)
The board of appeals shall determine its findings and submit a report in writing affirming, modifying, or revoking the order of the building official in whole or in part, and shall determine the remedial steps if any to be taken to render the building or other structure safe.
(b)
The findings and determination agreed upon by a majority of the board shall be deemed conclusive, and certified copies of the report shall be filed with the building official and with the owner or the owner’s representative, and shall be binding upon the building official and all parties in interest.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 2 - New Buildings and Structures › Section 23-27.3-127.0. - State and local boards of appeals.

§ 23-27.3-127.0. State and local boards of appeals.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 2 - New Buildings and Structures › Section 23-27.3-127.1.1. - Stay of proceedings.

§ 23-27.3-127.1.1. Stay of proceedings.
The filing of an appeal by the owner shall stay all actions required by the state building commissioner’s interpretation, order, requirement, direction, or failure to act, unless the state building commissioner charged with the administration or enforcement of this code or any of its rules or regulations presents evidence, and the board of standards and appeals finds that upon the evidence presented, a stay would involve imminent peril to public health, safety, and welfare. In such an event, the stay of all proceedings shall be waived or the board may order other action necessary to preserve the public health, safety, and welfare. Before waiving the stay of proceedings, the board shall hold a hearing and give the appellant and state, or local agency claiming that a stay would involve imminent peril to public health, safety, and welfare, notice in writing of the hearing not less than twenty-four (24) hours before the hearing.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1; P.L. 1983, ch. 41, § 1; P.L. 1985, ch. 162, § 1; P.L. 1987, ch. 526, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 2 - New Buildings and Structures › Section 23-27.3-127.1.2. - Granting variance.

§ 23-27.3-127.1.2. Granting variance.
The board of standards and appeals may vary the application of any provision of this code to any particular case when in the opinion of the board, the enforcement of this code would do manifest injustice; provided, that the board finds that the decision to grant a variance, or modification will not conflict with the general objectives of this code. The board of standards and appeals may further grant blanket variances from the application of any provision of this code when, in the opinion of the board, these provisions have either been rendered obsolete or impose an unanticipated hardship upon the general public, and the board finds that the decision to grant a blanket variance will not conflict with the general objectives of this code. This blanket variance is effective until the next code adoption process of the committee.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 430, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 2 - New Buildings and Structures › Section 23-27.3-127.1.3. - Additional powers.

§ 23-27.3-127.1.3. Additional powers.
The board may impose in any decision, limitations both as to time and use, and a continuation of any use permitted may be conditioned upon additional modifications as set forth in the decision.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 2 - New Buildings and Structures › Section 23-27.3-127.2. - Local board of appeals.

§ 23-27.3-127.2. Local board of appeals.
(a)
A board of appeals shall be appointed by each municipality. The board shall consist of the following five (5) members: one shall be an architect; two (2) shall be professional engineers; one shall be a builder or superintendent of construction; and one shall be a member of the general public. A member of a board of appeals of one municipality may also be a member of a board of appeals of another municipality. An aggrieved party as defined in § 23-27.3-127.1(b)(2)(i) — (b)(2)(vi) may appeal an interpretation, order, requirement, direction, or failure to act under this code by a local official of a city or town charged with the administration or enforcement of this code of any of its rules and regulations, to the local board in that city or town.
(b)
If there is no local board and an appeal is filed with the state board of appeals in accordance with § 23-27.3-127.1, all stenographic costs of the appeal shall be reimbursed to the budget account of the board by the municipality.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1; P.L. 1981, ch. 236, § 4; P.L. 1985, ch. 162, § 1; P.L. 1987, ch. 526, § 1; P.L. 1989, ch. 542, § 56; P.L. 1991, ch. 48, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 430, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 2 - New Buildings and Structures › Section 23-27.3-127.2.1. - Membership and local board.

§ 23-27.3-127.2.1. Membership and local board.
Any building code board of appeals duly established by ordinance or otherwise in a city or town and in existence on July 1, 1977, shall qualify as a local board of appeals under § 23-27.3-127.0, notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in this section. However, the procedure and rights for appeal for the board of appeals shall be governed by this code. If a city or town has not duly established by ordinance or otherwise a local building code appeals board by July 1, 1977, the city or town shall establish a board of appeals, hereinafter referred to as the local board of appeals, consisting of five (5) members appointed by the chief executive officer of the city or town; one member appointed for five (5) years, one for four (4) years, one for three (3) years, one for two (2) years and one to serve for one year or until his or her successor has been appointed, provided, however that appointments to the building code board of appeals for the city of East Providence shall be made by unanimous vote of the city council of the city of East Providence.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1; P.L. 1993, ch. 164, § 1; P.L. 1993, ch. 447, § 1; P.L. 1997, ch. 326, § 85.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 2 - New Buildings and Structures › Section 23-27.3-127.2.2. - Stay of proceedings.

§ 23-27.3-127.2.2. Stay of proceedings.
Entry of an appeal by the aggrieved party shall stay all proceedings in furtherance of the action or failure to act appealed from, unless the state or local agency or any person charged with the administration or enforcement of this code or any of its rules or regulations presents evidence and the board finds that, upon the evidence presented, a stay would involve imminent peril to public health, safety, and welfare. In such an event, a stay of all proceedings shall be waived or the board may order other action necessary to preserve public health, safety, and welfare. Before waiving the stay of proceedings the board shall hold a hearing and give the appellant, state, or local agency claiming that a stay would involve imminent peril to public health, safety, and welfare, notice in writing of the hearing not less than twenty-four (24) hours before the hearing.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1; P.L. 1983, ch. 41, § 1; P.L. 1985, ch. 162, § 1; P.L. 1987, ch. 526, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 2 - New Buildings and Structures › Section 23-27.3-127.2.3. - Granting variance.

§ 23-27.3-127.2.3. Granting variance.
The local board of appeals may vary the application of any provision of this code to any particular case when, in the opinion of the board, the enforcement of this code would do manifest injustice; provided, that the board finds that the decision to grant a variance or modification will not conflict with the general objectives of this code.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 2 - New Buildings and Structures › Section 23-27.3-127.2.4. - Additional powers.

§ 23-27.3-127.2.4. Additional powers.
The board may impose in any decision, limitations both as to time and use, and a continuation of any use permitted may be conditioned upon modifications as set forth in the decision.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 2 - New Buildings and Structures › Section 23-27.3-127.2.5. - Procedures.

§ 23-27.3-127.2.5. Procedures.
(a)
When the building official refuses to issue a building permit in whole or in part, or refuses to approve the mode or manner of construction proposed to be followed or the materials to be used in the erection or alteration of a building or structure, or when it is claimed that the provisions of this code do not apply or that an equally good or more desirable form of construction can be employed in a specific case, or when it is claimed that the true intent and meaning of this code and regulations have been misconstrued or wrongly interpreted, within thirty (30) days the owner of the building or structure, whether erected or to be erected, the owner’s authorized agent, or other aggrieved party may make an application for an appeal in writing from the decision of the building official to the local board of appeal.
(b)
Upon receipt of the application for an appeal, the chairperson or secretary of the board of appeal shall appoint a panel of not less than three (3) members of the board to hear each appeal.
(c)
Applications filed at least twenty-five (25) days, including Saturdays, Sundays, and legal holidays, prior to the monthly meeting of the board will be advertised for public hearing at the next scheduled meeting. Appeals affecting the disability regulations of the state building code shall cite the provisions in the advertisements. A copy of the application for appeal to the disability provisions of shall be sent to the state building commissioner. Unless the appeal is continued, a copy of the decision of the board shall be mailed to the owner, the aggrieved party, and to the building official from whom the appeal has been taken not later than ten (10) days following the date of the hearing.
(d)
Applications for appeal must be accompanied by two (2) copies of the required plans for review by the building official and the board of appeals.
(e)
The building official shall submit to the board of appeals a notice identifying the reason for the refusal to issue a permit and the code provisions being disputed.
(f)
Any aggrieved party affected by the decision of the local board may appeal to the state board of standards and appeals within twenty (20) days after the filing of the local decision with the building official and owner. Any determination made by the local board shall be subject to review de novo by the state board of standards and appeals.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1; P.L. 1981, ch. 236, § 4; P.L. 1985, ch. 162, § 1; P.L. 1991, ch. 48, § 1; P.L. 1997, ch. 150, § 3; P.L. 1999, ch. 430, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 2 - New Buildings and Structures › Section 23-27.3-127.2.6. - Local decision transmitted to state board.

§ 23-27.3-127.2.6. Local decision transmitted to state board.
A copy of any decision by a local board of appeals shall be transmitted to the state building commissioner within ten (10) days after the rendering of the decision.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 2 - New Buildings and Structures › Section 23-27.3-128.0. - Design and construction procedures.

§ 23-27.3-128.0. Design and construction procedures.
History of Section.
P.L. 1988, ch. 222, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 2 - New Buildings and Structures › Section 23-27.3-128.1. - Scope.

§ 23-27.3-128.1. Scope.
(a)
The provisions of this section shall define the responsibility required of the owner, architect, engineer, contractor, and building official during the design, construction, and testing process for new or renovated buildings or structures.
(b)
One and two (2) family dwellings design and construction are exempt from the provisions of this section, unless the building official determines that the dwelling or related structures are of an unusual design and require the use of the provisions.
History of Section.
P.L. 1988, ch. 222, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 2 - New Buildings and Structures › Section 23-27.3-128.1.1. - Owner’s responsibilities.

§ 23-27.3-128.1.1. Owner’s responsibilities.
(a)
The owner shall be responsible for providing the services as required in § 23-27.3-128.3(1) — (3). The contractual rights of the owner shall be preserved in that he or she will still be able to assign the duties for which he or she is responsible to whatever person he or she desires, so long as the person so assigned qualifies to fulfill the requirements of this section of the code.
(b)
When the owner retains, or is required by the building official to retain, the services of an architect or engineer, the architect or engineer shall provide the services as required in § 23-27.3-128.2.2.
(c)
The building official shall require the owner to certify to the requirements of subsection (a) or (b) prior to the issuance of a permit to the owner or his or her agent.
History of Section.
P.L. 1988, ch. 222, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 2 - New Buildings and Structures › Section 23-27.3-128.1.2 - — 23-27.3-128.1.5. Repealed.

§ 23-27.3-128.1.2 — 23-27.3-128.1.5. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1; Repealed by P.L. 1985, ch. 162, § 2, effective June 13, 1985; P.L. 1988, ch. 222, § 1, effective June 2, 1988.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 2 - New Buildings and Structures › Section 23-27.3-128.2. - Repealed.

§ 23-27.3-128.2. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1; Repealed by P.L. 1988, ch. 222, § 1, effective June 2, 1988.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 2 - New Buildings and Structures › Section 23-27.3-128.2.1. - Drawings and specifications.

§ 23-27.3-128.2.1. Drawings and specifications.
All drawings, specifications, and computations for new construction, alteration, repair, or expansion work involving the practice of professional engineering or architecture as defined by Rhode Island state law, shall be prepared by professional engineers or registered architects as licensed or registered by the state. All the drawings, computations, and specifications required for a building permit application for the work, must be prepared by or under the direct supervision of a professional engineer or registered architect and bear his or her signature and seal in accordance with the Rhode Island statutes and regulations governing the professional licensing or registration of engineers or architects, and shall signify to the best of his or her knowledge that the drawings, computations, and specifications shall meet the applicable provisions of this code and acceptable engineering practices and all applicable laws and ordinances.
History of Section.
P.L. 1988, ch. 222, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 2 - New Buildings and Structures › Section 23-27.3-128.2.2. - Responsibilities.

§ 23-27.3-128.2.2. Responsibilities.
A professional engineering or registered architect on behalf of the owner shall be responsible for the following:
(1)
Review of the shop drawings, samples, and other submittals of the contractor as required by the construction contract documents submitted for permit and approval for conformance to the design concept.
(2)
All change orders to the contract documents shall be submitted to the building official after approval by the professional engineer or registered architect.
(3)
Review and approval of the testing procedures listed in § 23-27.3-128.4 and appendix A. The engineer or architect shall notify the owner, building official, and contractor of the results of all tests and the required corrective measures which need to be taken.
(4)
Insure special engineering or architectural inspection of critical construction components requiring controlled materials, or construction specified in the accepted engineering practice standards as listed in appendix A.
(5)
The professional engineer or registered architect or his or her representative shall provide the necessary professional services and be present on the construction site on a regular and periodic basis to determine that, generally, the work is proceeding in accordance with the documents approved for the permit.
History of Section.
P.L. 1988, ch. 222, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 2 - New Buildings and Structures › Section 23-27.3-128.2.3. - Reporting.

§ 23-27.3-128.2.3. Reporting.
The professional engineer or registered architect shall submit periodically, in a form at regular construction inspection intervals acceptable to the building official, a progress report together with pertinent comments. At the completion of construction, the engineer or architect shall submit to the building official a report as to the satisfactory completion and the readiness of the project for occupancy (excepting any items not endangering the occupancy or operation and listing pertinent deviations from the approved permit documents).
History of Section.
P.L. 1988, ch. 222, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 2 - New Buildings and Structures › Section 23-27.3-128.3. - Construction contractor responsibilities.

§ 23-27.3-128.3. Construction contractor responsibilities.
The actual construction of the work shall be the responsibility of the owner or the contractor designated as his or her agent and who shall:
(1)
Perform all work in accordance with the construction documents on file with the building official.
(2)
Perform specified work in a safe and satisfactory manner and in accordance with all applicable local, state, and federal statutes and regulations.
(3)
Upon completion of the construction, shall certify to the best of his or her knowledge and belief that the work has been done in substantial accord with subdivisions (1) and (2) above and with all pertinent deviations.
History of Section.
P.L. 1988, ch. 222, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 2 - New Buildings and Structures › Section 23-27.3-128.4. - Testing required.

§ 23-27.3-128.4. Testing required.
(a)
The referenced standards listed in the appendices or the text of this code contain many field or agency tests which are required for the proper installation or erection of any building or structure and its component structural, electrical, mechanical, and plumbing assemblies. It shall be the responsibility of the engineer or architect to specify the tests as required by § 23-27.3-128.2.2 of this code and listed in this code, and its standards; the owner or the contractor shall then secure the necessary professional services to perform the tests. The engineer or the architect shall file the periodic test reports and report any deviations or any corrective measures to be taken as required in § 23-27.3-128.2.2(3).
(b)
A list of the building components to be tested and the tests to be performed, shall be on file prior to the phase of the construction beginning. The building official may require additional testing in order to assure compliance with the requirements of this code.
History of Section.
P.L. 1988, ch. 222, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 2 - New Buildings and Structures › Section 23-27.3-128.5. - Building official’s responsibilities.

§ 23-27.3-128.5. Building official’s responsibilities.
The building official shall be responsible for carrying out the duties and responsibilities as outlined in article I of this code with regard to the issuing of permits, the maintenance of records, the performance of inspections, and any other administrative procedures except as may be specifically exempt herein. Nothing contained in this section shall have the effect of waiving or limiting the building official’s authority to enforce this code with respect to examination of the contract documents, including the plans, computations, and specifications, and related field inspections.
History of Section.
P.L. 1988, ch. 222, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 2 - New Buildings and Structures › Section 23-27.3-128.5.1. - Waiver of plan examination.

§ 23-27.3-128.5.1. Waiver of plan examination.
The examination of drawings may be waived when the plans for the erection or alteration of a building are prepared by a professional engineer or architect, and the professional engineer or architect has stated in writing that he or she has supervised the preparation of the architectural, structural, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical design contract documents, and that he or she will review and approve all working drawings for the construction, and that the document shall, to the best of his or her knowledge conform to all provisions of this code and all rules and regulations adopted under its provisions.
History of Section.
P.L. 1988, ch. 222, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 2 - New Buildings and Structures › Section 23-27.3-128.5.2. - Waiver of detailed field inspection.

§ 23-27.3-128.5.2. Waiver of detailed field inspection.
(a)
The building official may waive the detailed department field inspection when the professional engineer or architect certifies that the construction work will be built under his or her field observations and in accordance with the approved contract documents, and that he or she will certify to the best of his or her knowledge information and belief that the construction is in substantial accordance with the documents and that he or she will submit a report in compliance with § 23-27.3-128.2.3.
(b)
Solely in the case of one and two (2) family dwellings, the building official may waive a detailed department field inspection if a qualified private sector inspector certifies that the construction work will be built under his or her field observations and in accordance with approved contract documents and that he or she will certify to the best of his or her knowledge, information and belief that the construction is in substantial accordance with the documents and that he or she will submit a report in compliance with § 23-27.3-128.2.3.
(c)
The building code standards committee shall establish rules and regulations for certification of private sector inspectors.
History of Section.
P.L. 1988, ch. 222, § 2; P.L. 2006, ch. 107, § 1; P.L. 2006, ch. 134, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 2 - New Buildings and Structures › Section 23-27.3-128.5.3. - Inspection waiver — Utilization.

§ 23-27.3-128.5.3. Inspection waiver — Utilization.
The building official may utilize this inspection waiver, in whole or in part, but he or she must cause sufficient plan review and construction inspection by the building official or staff to insure that:
(1)
The proposed usage and facilities are in conformance with the municipal zoning ordinances and this code;
(2)
The contractor is maintaining the required construction safety;
(3)
The professional engineer or registered architect is, in fact, providing the necessary inspections; and
(4)
State approvals for septic systems, wetlands, and Fire Safety Code provisions have been submitted to the building official prior to the issuance of a permit.
History of Section.
P.L. 1988, ch. 222, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 2 - New Buildings and Structures › Section 23-27.3-128.5.4. - Building permit issuance or requirements.

§ 23-27.3-128.5.4. Building permit issuance or requirements.
The waiver of the detailed plan examination and/or detailed field inspection shall be determined prior to the issuance of any permits and may be a prerequisite for the permit issuance. Refusal by the owner to provide such service as required by the building official shall result in the denial of the permit. However, the owner may file an appeal as provided in §§ 23-27.3-127.1 or 23-27.3-127.2.
History of Section.
P.L. 1988, ch. 222, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 2 - New Buildings and Structures › Section 23-27.3-128.6. - Special technical services.

§ 23-27.3-128.6. Special technical services.
(a)
When applications for unusual designs or magnitude of construction are filed, the building official may refer the plans and specifications to the state building commissioner, or he or she may in his or her discretion, retain a professional engineer or architect for advice and recommendations as to the plans and specifications, safety of design, and compliance with this code. The building official may also employ a professional engineer or architect to observe the construction in the field to insure compliance with the approved plans and permit. Upon completion of the work, the architect or engineer employed shall file with the building official a report to the effect that to the best of his or her knowledge and belief, the building has been erected in accordance with accepted engineering practice and in conformity to all the statutory provisions governing building construction for the designated use group classification of the building structure, in respect to use, fire grading, floor, and occupancy loads.
(b)
When an owner has plans and specifications for repetitive construction in a community or several communities for proposed one and two (2) family dwellings, the owner shall be permitted to refer the review of such plans and specifications for building code compliance to the office of the state building code commissioner for building code approval. All communities shall be required to accept such approved plans without further review until approval is revoked by the state building code commissioner. Provided, however, that said communities shall incur no liability for any errors or omissions associated with said approval. The building code standards committee may also establish a list of private sector certified plan reviewers to perform this function. The committee shall establish rules and regulations for this certification procedure. The owner of all plans reviewed and approved by the office of the state building code commissioner or a certified plan reviewer will not be charged for the review of such plans and specifications for building code compliance by all and any communities charging a separate fee for such review.
History of Section.
P.L. 1988, ch. 222, § 2; P.L. 2006, ch. 166, § 1; P.L. 2006, ch. 193, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 2 - New Buildings and Structures › Section 23-27.3-128.7. - Fees and costs.

§ 23-27.3-128.7. Fees and costs.
All fees and costs related to the performance of special professional services, testing, inspections, and reporting shall be borne by the owner.
History of Section.
P.L. 1988, ch. 222, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 2 - New Buildings and Structures › Section 23-27.3-129.0, 23-27.3-129.1. - Repealed.

§ 23-27.3-129.0, 23-27.3-129.1. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1; P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1; Repealed by P.L. 1999, ch. 430, § 1, effective July 3, 1999.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 2 - New Buildings and Structures › Section 23-27.3-129.2. - Repealed.

§ 23-27.3-129.2. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1; Repealed by P.L. 1985, ch. 162, § 2, effective June 13, 1985.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 2 - New Buildings and Structures › Section 23-27.3-129.3. - Repealed.

§ 23-27.3-129.3. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1; Repealed by P.L. 1985, ch. 162, § 2, effective June 13, 1985.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 2 - New Buildings and Structures › Section 23-27.3-129.4. - Refrigerants.

§ 23-27.3-129.4. Refrigerants.
No provision of the Rhode Island building code, or other local code, may prohibit or otherwise limit the use of a refrigerant designated as acceptable for use pursuant to and in accordance with the provisions of 42 U.S.C. § 7671k; provided any equipment containing such refrigerant is listed and installed in accordance with safety standards and use conditions imposed pursuant to such designation.
History of Section.
P.L. 2023, ch. 159, § 1, effective June 20, 2023; P.L. 2023, ch. 160, § 1, effective June 20, 2023.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 3 - Miscellaneous Provisions › Section 23-27.3-200. - Savings clause.

§ 23-27.3-200. Savings clause.
That nothing in these regulations hereby adopted shall be construed to affect any suit or proceeding pending in any court, or any rights acquitted, or liability incurred, or any cause or causes of action acquired or existing under any act or local regulations repealed as prescribed in this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 232, § 3; P.L. 1981, ch. 236, § 4; G.L. 1956, § 23-27.3-2; P.L. 1997, ch. 326, § 36.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 3 - Miscellaneous Provisions › Section 23-27.3-300. - Publication of code.

§ 23-27.3-300. Publication of code.
The administrative provisions of the code as printed in the general laws are numbered to be consistent with the referenced sections of the Model Code and Standards as adopted by the building code standards committee as rules and regulations.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 232, § 3; P.L. 1981, ch. 236, § 4; G.L. 1956, § 23-27.3-3; P.L. 1997, ch. 326, § 36.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 3 - Miscellaneous Provisions › Section 23-27.3-400. - Severability.

§ 23-27.3-400. Severability.
The provisions of this chapter are severable, and if any of its provisions shall be held unconstitutional or otherwise invalid by any court of competent jurisdiction, the decision of the court shall not affect or impair any of the remaining provisions.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 232, § 3; P.L. 1981, ch. 236, § 4; G.L. 1956, § 23-27.3-4; P.L. 1997, ch. 326, § 36.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 3 - Miscellaneous Provisions › Section 23-27.3-401. - Sale of pressure vessel.

§ 23-27.3-401. Sale of pressure vessel.
It is unlawful for any individual to install a boiler or water heater in a residential dwelling without first obtaining a plumbing permit and having the installation inspected by the appropriate municipal inspector.
History of Section.
P.L. 1999, ch. 347, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 3 - Miscellaneous Provisions › Section 23-27.3-500. - Effective date of code.

§ 23-27.3-500. Effective date of code.
The effective date of this code shall be July 1, 1977.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 23-27.3-5; P.L. 1997, ch. 326, § 36.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 3 - Miscellaneous Provisions › Section 23-27.3-501, 23-27.3-502. - Repealed.

§ 23-27.3-501, 23-27.3-502. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1; P.L. 1979, ch. 273, § 1; Repealed by P.L. 1981, ch. 232, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 3 - Miscellaneous Provisions › Section 23-27.3-505. - Repealed.

§ 23-27.3-505. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 2; P.L. 1977, ch. 59, § 2; P.L. 1977, ch. 199, § 2; P.L. 1977, ch. 254, § 2; P.L. 1978, ch. 354, § 2; P.L. 1978, ch. 373, § 2; P.L. 1978, ch. 389, § 2; P.L. 1980, ch. 45, § 3; P.L. 1980, ch. 74, § 3; Repealed by P.L. 1981, ch. 232, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 3 - Miscellaneous Provisions › Section 23-27.3-600. - Fresh water wetlands.

§ 23-27.3-600. Fresh water wetlands.
The provisions of § 2-1-18 et seq. relating to fresh water wetlands, and any rules or regulations promulgated thereunder, are hereby adopted by reference into the state code.
History of Section.
P.L. 1982, ch. 359, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 23-27.3-12; P.L. 1997, ch. 326, § 36.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 3 - Miscellaneous Provisions › Section 23-27.3-700. - Repealed.

§ 23-27.3-700. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1989, ch. 326, § 2; P.L. 1990, ch. 293, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 23-27.3-13; P.L. 1997, ch. 318, § 1; P.L. 1997, ch. 326, §§ 36, 85; Repealed by P.L. 1999, ch. 430, § 1, effective July 3, 1999.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 3 - Miscellaneous Provisions › Section 23-27.3-701. - Baby changing tables.

§ 23-27.3-701. Baby changing tables.
(a)
All new construction of state and municipal buildings opened to the public commenced after December 31, 1999, and all renovations, and replacements of a value in excess of fifty percent (50%) of existing public state and municipal buildings open to the public commenced after December 31, 1999, shall provide for baby changing tables in both ladies’ and men’s rooms.
(b)
A municipality may apply to the local building official for a waiver of this provision in the case of unreasonable hardship.
(c)
The building codes standard committee shall adopt and promulgate all rules and regulations required to carry out the purpose of this section.
History of Section.
P.L. 1999, ch. 236, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 3 - Miscellaneous Provisions › Section 23-27.3-702. - Gender inclusive restroom act.

§ 23-27.3-702. Gender inclusive restroom act.
(a)
Notwithstanding any other provision of the general or public laws to the contrary, any single-user toilet facility in a public building or place of public accommodation that exists or is constructed on or after January 1, 2023, shall be made available for use by persons of any gender, and designated for use by not more than one occupant at a time or for family or assisted use. A single-user toilet facility may be identified by a sign; provided, that the sign marks the facility as a restroom and does not indicate one specific gender.
(b)
All new construction of state and municipal buildings opened to the public commenced after July 1, 2021, and all renovations and replacements of a value in excess of fifty percent (50%) of existing public state and municipal buildings open to the public commenced after January 1, 2022, shall provide for a single-user toilet facility available for use by persons of any gender.
(c)
A municipality may apply to the state building code standards committee for a waiver of this provision in the case of undue burden.
(d)
During any inspection of a public building or a place of public accommodation by an inspector, building official, or other local official responsible for code enforcement, the inspector or official may inspect for compliance with this section.
(e)
The building codes standards committee shall adopt and promulgate all rules and regulations required to carry out the purpose of this section.
History of Section.
P.L. 2021, ch. 113, § 1, effective July 2, 2021; P.L. 2021, ch. 114, § 1, effective July 2, 2021; P.L. 2022, ch. 279, § 1, effective July 2, 2022; P.L. 2022, ch. 321, § 1, effective July 6, 2022.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.4 - Interstate Compact on Industrialized/Modular Buildings › Section 23-27.4-2. - Repealed.

§ 23-27.4-2. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1990, ch. 449, § 1; Repealed by P.L. 1992, ch. 375, § 2, effective July 21, 1992.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-28 - Fire Prevention and Investigation [Repealed.] › Section 23-28-1 - — 23-28-10. Repealed.

§ 23-28-1 — 23-28-10. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1931, ch. 1800, §§ 2, 5, 6, 7, 12, 13, 14; P.L. 1931, ch. 1800, § 1, as enacted by P.L. 1937, ch. 2527, § 2; G.L. 1938, ch. 354, §§ 1-7; P.L. 1949, ch. 2319, § 1; Repealed by P.L. 1966, ch. 216, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-28.01 - Comprehensive Fire Safety Act › Section 23-28.01-1. - Short title.

§ 23-28.01-1. Short title.
This act shall be known and may be cited as “The Comprehensive Fire Safety Act of 2003”.
History of Section.
P.L. 2003, ch. 106, § 2; P.L. 2003, ch. 107, § 2.