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 23-27.3-114.5. - Approved plans.

§ 23-27.3-114.5. Approved plans.
The building official or state building commissioner shall stamp and endorse in writing the plans submitted in accordance with § 23-27.3-113.5; one set of the stamped and endorsed plans shall be retained and shall not leave from the department except in the sole discretion of the building officials for the purposes of examination by another municipal or state department; one set of plans shall be kept at the building site, open to inspection of the building official, state building commissioner, or their authorized representative, at all reasonable times; one set shall be retained by the owner, architect, or engineer.
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 23-27.3-114.6. - Revocation of permits.

§ 23-27.3-114.6. Revocation of permits.
The building official may revoke any permit or approval issued under the provisions of this code in the event that the granting of the permit or approval was based upon statements which prove to be false or based on misrepresentations of fact. Any aggrieved party shall have the right to appeal any revocations by any building official, and the appeal shall be made within fifteen (15) days of the decision to the local board of appeals as set forth in § 23-27.3-127.2.
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 23-27.3-114.7. - Approval in part.

§ 23-27.3-114.7. Approval in part.
When an application and all documents necessary for the issuance of a permit to erect or add to a building or other structure have been filed, as required in § 23-27.3-113.5, and prior to the issuance of the permit, the building official shall issue a special permit for the erection of the foundation of a building or structure upon the request of the owner, provided satisfactory documentation is provided the building official for that work. The holder of the special permit may proceed at his or her own risk without assurance that a permit for the entire structure will be granted.
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 23-27.3-114.8. - Posting of permit.

§ 23-27.3-114.8. Posting of permit.
A copy of the building permit shall be kept in view and protected from the weather at the site of operations, and shall be open to public inspection during the entire time of prosecution of the work and until such time as the certificate of occupancy shall have been issued. The building permit shall serve as an inspection record card to allow the building official to make entries thereon regarding inspection of the work.
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 23-27.3-114.9. - Notice of building start.

§ 23-27.3-114.9. Notice of building start.
At least twenty-four (24) hours notice prior to the start of work under a building permit shall be given to the building official.
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 23-27.3-115.0. - Conditions of permit.

§ 23-27.3-115.0. Conditions of permit.
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 23-27.3-115.1. - Compliance with code.

§ 23-27.3-115.1. Compliance with code.
The permit shall be a license to proceed with the work and shall not be constructed as authority to violate, cancel, or set aside any provisions of this code, except as specifically stipulated by modification or legally granted variation in accordance with §§ 23-27.3-127.1 — 23-27.3-127.2.6.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 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 23-27.3-115.2. - Compliance with permit.

§ 23-27.3-115.2. Compliance with permit.
All work shall conform to the stamped or endorsed application and plans for which the permit has been issued and any approved amendments 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 23-27.3-115.3. - Compliance with plot plan.

§ 23-27.3-115.3. Compliance with plot plan.
All new work shall be located strictly in accordance with the approved plot plan.
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 23-27.3-115.4. - Change in plot plan.

§ 23-27.3-115.4. Change in plot plan.
No lot or plot shall be changed, increased, or diminished in area from that shown on the official plot plan, as specified in § 23-27.3-113.6, unless a revised plan, not inconsistent with zoning or other municipal ordinances, indicating the changes accompanied by the necessary affidavit of owner or applicant shall have been filed and approved; except that the revised plot plan will not be required if the change is caused by reason of an official street opening, street widening, or other public improvement.
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 23-27.3-115.5. - Dismissal of contractor or subcontractor.

§ 23-27.3-115.5. Dismissal of contractor or subcontractor.
Should an owner dismiss either a contractor or subcontractor for any reason:
(1)
Upon hiring a new contractor or subcontractor, the owner shall, at no additional fee, file an application for an amended permit which shall include the names, addresses and any licenses or registrations required of the new contractor or subcontractor; as well as any changes needed to complete the work in accordance with the approved plans and specifications or to remedy any outstanding code violations; and
(2)
Upon receipt of an application for an amended permit the building officials shall conduct an inspection to determine the extent of the work done to date and whether any corrective work is necessary to complete the project in accordance with the approved plans and specifications or to remedy any code violations.
History of Section.
P.L. 1992, ch. 376, § 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 23-27.3-115.6. - Electronic construction permitting.

§ 23-27.3-115.6. Electronic construction permitting.
(a)
Every municipality in the state, on or before July 1, 2023, shall adopt and implement electronic construction permitting. For purposes of this section, “electronic construction permitting” means use of computer-based tools and services that automate and streamline the building permit process to include, but not limited to, task-specific tools for: applications; submission of building plans and plans for developments and plots; plan review; permitting; inspections; inspection scheduling; project tracking; fee calculation and collection; and workflow and report management.
(b)
The state building commissioner pursuant to the provisions of § 23-27.3-108.2 shall promulgate rules and regulations to implement the provisions of this section.
(c)
On or before July 1, 2023, pursuant to rules and regulations promulgated by the state building commissioner, notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter to the contrary, all acts, requirements, filings, and documents necessary to comply with the building permit process shall be conducted by means of electronic construction permitting. Provided, however, a municipality may elect to delay implementation of the requirements of this section for a period of one year by giving written notice to the state building commissioner prior to July 1, 2023. Any municipality electing to delay implementation shall comply with the provisions of this section on or before July 1, 2024.
History of Section.
P.L. 2021, ch. 302, § 2, effective July 9, 2021; P.L. 2021, ch. 303, § 2, effective July 9, 2021.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 2 - New Buildings and Structures › Section 23-27.3-116.0. - Moving, raising, shoring, or demolition of buildings.

§ 23-27.3-116.0. Moving, raising, shoring, or demolition of 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 23-27.3-116.1. - Service connections.

§ 23-27.3-116.1. Service connections.
Before a building may be demolished, razed, shored, or removed, the owner or the owner’s agent shall notify all utilities or agencies having service connections within the building, including, but not limited to, water, electric, gas, sewer, and other connections. A permit to demolish or remove a building shall not be issued until a written release is obtained from all utilities or agencies, stating that their respective service connections and appurtenant equipment, such as meters and regulators, have been removed or sealed and plugged in a safe manner.
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 23-27.3-116.2. - Buildings to be rodent-eradicated prior to demolition.

§ 23-27.3-116.2. Buildings to be rodent-eradicated prior to demolition.
No buildings or structures shall hereafter be razed or demolished unless, and until, provisions are made for the rodent eradication of the buildings or structures.
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 23-27.3-116.3. - Description and inspection of buildings — Travel route.

§ 23-27.3-116.3. Description and inspection of buildings — Travel route.
The application for the permit, as delineated in § 23-27.3-116.1, shall comply with all the applicable requirements of §§ 23-27.3-113.0, 23-27.3-114.0, and 23-27.3-115.0, and shall clearly state the length, width, and height of the building and shall include the type of material comprising the exterior walls and roofs, and if moved, the route by which it is to be so moved, and the time required for moving the building. The building official shall thereupon examine the building, and if the building official finds there is no danger to adjoining property or that the public will not be endangered or unduly inconvenienced if the building is to be transported on or across a public street or highway, the building official shall issue a permit for its removal subject to the prior written approval of other appropriate municipal officials such as the traffic engineer, the director of public works, and the chief of the fire department.
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 23-27.3-116.4. - Agreement condition to moving.

§ 23-27.3-116.4. Agreement condition to moving.
No building shall be moved from one location to another and no permits shall be issued for its removal until the owner or owners of the buildings shall sign an agreement to make the building conform to the requirements of this code for new buildings in its new location.
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 23-27.3-116.5. - Public utilities, wires, poles, trees, and shrubs.

§ 23-27.3-116.5. Public utilities, wires, poles, trees, and shrubs.
During the course of moving, demolishing, or shoring, of any building or structure no electrical light, trolley, telephone, or telegraph wires or poles shall be removed, moved, or disturbed without the written consent of the municipal authority and no tree or shrub shall be cut or disturbed except with the written consent of the owners of the premises upon which the tree or shrub stands, and no tree or shrub located on or over any part of a public street or highway, whether accepted or not shall be cut or disturbed, excepted by written consent of the municipal authority, and of the owners of the premises abutting on the part of the street or highway in which the tree or shrub stands.
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 23-27.3-116.6. - Moving to be continuous.

§ 23-27.3-116.6. Moving to be continuous.
When a building is moved on or across a public street or highway, the work and labor of moving the building shall continue twenty-four (24) hours each day, including Sunday, without interruption, while the building is in or upon the street or highway, unless the person moving the building is specially exempted from so doing by the building official.
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 23-27.3-116.7. - Watchperson and lights during moving.

§ 23-27.3-116.7. Watchperson and lights during moving.
Whenever and as long as a building or part of a building shall remain in or upon a public street or highway, the person moving the building, shall maintain a red light or lights burning at each end of the building during all periods of darkness, and at all times shall keep a watchperson on duty.
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 23-27.3-116.8. - Bonds and liability insurance.

§ 23-27.3-116.8. Bonds and liability insurance.
Prior to the issuance of a permit to move or demolish a building, a certificate of insurance and a one hundred percent (100%) performance bond shall be filed with the local building official or, in the case of a state project, with the state building commissioner. The amount of paid certificate shall be determined by the municipality or the state building commission respectively.
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 23-27.3-116.9. - Shoring.

§ 23-27.3-116.9. Shoring.
Every person desiring to shore up a building may be required by the building official to comply with all the pertinent requirements of moving and razing a building as provided in 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 23-27.3-117.0. - Removal of structures.

§ 23-27.3-117.0. Removal of structures.
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 23-27.3-117.1. - Lot regulation.

§ 23-27.3-117.1. Lot regulation.
When a building or structure has been demolished or removed and no building operation has been projected or approved, the vacant lot shall be filled with nonorganic fill, graded and maintained in conformity with adjacent grades. The lot shall be maintained free from the accumulation of rubbish and all other unsafe and hazardous conditions which endanger the health, safety, and welfare of the public; provisions shall be made to prevent the accumulation of water or damage to any foundations on the premises or the adjoining property; and necessary retaining walls and fences shall be erected in accordance with the provisions of this chapter.
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 23-27.3-118.0. - Fees.

§ 23-27.3-118.0. Fees.
No permit shall be issued for new construction, alteration, removal, demolition, or other building operation until the fees prescribed in accordance with § 23-27.3-119.0 shall have been paid to the city or town collector or other municipal agency authorized to collect the fees.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1; P.L. 2015, ch. 213, § 1; P.L. 2015, ch. 230, § 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 23-27.3-118.1. - Special fees.

§ 23-27.3-118.1. Special fees.
The payment of the fee for construction, alteration, removal, or demolition, and for all work done in connection with, or concurrently with, the work contemplated by a building permit, shall not relieve the applicant or holder of the permit from the payment of other fees that may be prescribed in accordance with § 23-27.3-119.0 for water taps, sewer connections, electrical and plumbing permits, erection of signs and display structures, marquees, or other appurtenant structures, or fees for inspections, certificates of use and occupancy for other privileges or requirements, both within and without the jurisdiction of the state building office.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1; P.L. 2015, ch. 213, § 1; P.L. 2015, ch. 230, § 1; P.L. 2019, ch. 88, art. 4, § 4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 2 - New Buildings and Structures › Section 23-27.3-118.2. - Ramps for disabled persons.

§ 23-27.3-118.2. Ramps for disabled persons.
(a)
No municipality shall require that a fee be paid for the construction or repair of an access ramp for disabled persons to a residential R-4 use group.
(b)
Notwithstanding the provisions of any zoning ordinance to the contrary, ramps, lifts and other accommodation alternatives necessary for compliance with the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) relating to accessibility shall be permitted as needed in the front, side or rear yards of existing structures, including those which have been built-out or converted to commercial uses.
History of Section.
P.L. 1995, ch. 331, § 1; P.L. 2013, ch. 324, § 1; P.L. 2013, ch. 366, § 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 23-27.3-119.0. - Fee computation.

§ 23-27.3-119.0. Fee computation.
The building commissioner shall collect information on types and amounts of municipal fees set forth in §§ 23-27.3-118 and 23-27.3-118.1 and create a process or formula for establishing statewide permit fees. Said information and a description of the process or formula shall be provided to all municipalities, the League of Cities and Towns, and the general assembly by December 1, 2015. Beginning July 1, 2017, the permit fees assessed by all municipalities shall be computed according to the process and formula either established by, or approved by, the state of Rhode Island building code commission, provided that all fees shall have multipliers that go down as the cost of construction increases in value. No fee shall be assessed for the first reinspection of work that has failed the initial inspection; provided, a fee shall be allowed for all necessary subsequent reinspections of the same work.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1; P.L. 2014, ch. 375, § 1; P.L. 2014, ch. 555, § 1; P.L. 2015, ch. 213, § 1; P.L. 2015, ch. 230, § 1; P.L. 2016, ch. 317, § 1; P.L. 2016, ch. 328, § 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 23-27.3-120.0. - Certificate of use and occupancy.

§ 23-27.3-120.0. Certificate of use and occupancy.
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 23-27.3-120.1. - New buildings.

§ 23-27.3-120.1. New buildings.
No building or structure hereafter erected shall be used or occupied in whole or in part until a certificate of use and occupancy shall have been issued by the building official. The certificate shall not be issued until all work has been completed in accordance with the provisions of this code, the Fire Safety Code (chapters 28.1 — 28.39 of this title), of all approved permits, and of all applicable codes for which a permit is required, except as provided in § 23-27.3-120.4. In addition, the certificate shall not be issued for any property serviced by a private well until the property owner has submitted documentation to the building official which demonstrates compliance with the drinking water testing requirements and the drinking water standard for coliform bacteria, fluoride, lead, nitrate and nitrite for private wells established by the director of health. A city or town may require additional testing and compliance with quality standards established pursuant to § 23-1-5.3(6).
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1; P.L. 1992, ch. 377, § 1; P.L. 2002, ch. 161, § 4; P.L. 2002, ch. 162, § 4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 2 - New Buildings and Structures › Section 23-27.3-120.2. - Buildings hereafter altered.

§ 23-27.3-120.2. Buildings hereafter altered.
No building or structure subsequently enlarged, extended, or altered to change the use group classification, the fire-grading, the maximum live load capacity, or the occupancy load capacity, in whole or in part, shall be occupied or used until the certificate has been issued by the building official, certifying that the work has been completed in accordance with the provisions of this code, the rehabilitation building and fire code for existing buildings and structures, the fire safety code (chapters 28.1 — 28.39 of this title) and the approved permits, and all of the applicable codes of all for which a permit is required. Any use or occupancy, which was not discontinued during the alterations, shall be discontinued within thirty (30) days after the completion of the alteration unless the required certificate is issued by the building official.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1; P.L. 1992, ch. 377, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 430, § 3; P.L. 2000, ch. 185, § 1; P.L. 2000, ch. 290, § 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 23-27.3-120.3. - Existing buildings.

§ 23-27.3-120.3. Existing buildings.
(a)
Upon written request from the owner of an existing building, the building official shall issue a certificate of use and occupancy, provided there are no violations of law or orders of the building official or the fire official pending, and it is established after inspection and investigation that the alleged use of the building has heretofore existed. Nothing in this code shall require the removal, alteration, or abandonment of, or prevent the continuance of the use and occupancy of, a lawfully existing building, unless the use is deemed to endanger public safety and welfare. In addition, the written request from the owner of any property serviced by a private well shall be accompanied by documentation which demonstrates compliance with the drinking water testing requirements and the drinking water standard for coliform bacteria, fluoride, lead, nitrate and nitrite for private wells established by the director of health. A city or town may require additional testing and compliance with quality standards established pursuant to subdivision 23-1-5.3(6). Testing results which show that a private well is not in compliance with one or more of these drinking water quality standards shall be sufficient to deem the private well as a danger to public safety and welfare, and shall require corrective action before the certificate of use and occupancy can be issued.
(b)
Corrective action will be required within thirty (30) days. The property owner may appeal to the Town Building Code Board of Appeals for a ninety (90) day extension, or give other just cause why the water well should remain in service for an extended period of time.
(c)
If a registered engineer or otherwise qualified professional certifies no currently available treatment system will adequately treat the water to meet the potability requirement, the property owner can appeal to the Town Building Code Board of Appeals for an exemption from the private well potability requirement until such time a public water supply becomes available. This exemption will expire after five (5) years, renewable by appeal only.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1; P.L. 1992, ch. 377, § 1; P.L. 2002, ch. 161, § 4; P.L. 2002, ch. 162, § 4; P.L. 2012, ch. 415, § 19.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 2 - New Buildings and Structures › Section 23-27.3-120.4. - Changes in use and occupancy.

§ 23-27.3-120.4. Changes in use and occupancy.
After a change of use has been made in a building or structure, the reestablishment of a prior use that would not have been legal in a new building of the same type of construction is prohibited unless the building complies with all applicable provisions of this code or the rehabilitation building and fire code for existing buildings and structures as applicable and the Fire Safety Code (chapters 28.1 — 28.39 of this title). A change from one prohibited use, for which a permit has been granted, to another prohibited use shall be deemed a violation of this code.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1; P.L. 1992, ch. 377, § 1; P.L. 2000, ch. 185, § 1; P.L. 2000, ch. 290, § 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 23-27.3-120.5. - Temporary occupancy.

§ 23-27.3-120.5. Temporary occupancy.
Upon the request of the holder of a permit, the building official may issue a temporary certificate of occupancy for a building or structure, or part thereof, before the entire work covered by the permit shall have been completed; provided, that the portion or portions may be occupied safely prior to full completion of the building without endangering life or public health, safety, and welfare; and, provided further, that the agencies having jurisdiction over permits issued under other applicable codes are notified of the decision to issue a temporary certificate.
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 23-27.3-120.6. - Contents of certificate.

§ 23-27.3-120.6. Contents of certificate.
The certificate shall certify compliance with the provisions of this code and the purpose for which the building or structure may be used in its several parts, and shall be issued by the building official within ten (10) days after final inspection; provided, that the provisions of the approved permits and of the applicable codes for which permits are required have been met. For use groups H, S, M, F, and B, the certificate of use and occupancy shall specify: the use group, in accordance with the provisions of this chapter; the maximum live load on all floors as prescribed in this chapter; the occupancy load in the building and all parts of the building as defined in this chapter; and any special stipulations, and conditions of the building permit.
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 23-27.3-121.1. - Posted use and occupancy.

§ 23-27.3-121.1. Posted use and occupancy.
A suitably designed placard approved by the committee shall be posted by the owner on all floors of every building and structure and part thereof designed for education, high hazard, storage mercantile, industrial, or business use (use groups, E, H, S, M, F, and B) as defined in Article 2. The placard shall be securely fastened to the building or structure in a readily visible place and shall state: the use group, the fire grading, the live load, and the occupancy load. Placards shall comply with Occupational Safety and Health Act (29 U.S.C. § 651 et seq.) requirements.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1; P.L. 1985, ch. 162, § 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 23-27.3-121.2. - Posted occupancy load.

§ 23-27.3-121.2. Posted occupancy load.
A suitably designed placard approved by the committee shall be posted by the owner of every building and structure and part thereof designed for use as a place of public assembly or as an institutional building for harboring people for penal, correctional, educational, medical, or other care or treatment, or as residential buildings used for hotels, lodging houses, boarding houses, dormitory buildings, and multiple-family dwellings (use groups A, 1, R-1 and R-2). The placard shall designate the maximum occupancy load.
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 23-27.3-121.3. - Furnishing of posted signs.

§ 23-27.3-121.3. Furnishing of posted signs.
All posted signs shall be furnished by the building official, posted by the owner, and shall be of permanent design; they shall not be removed or defaced and, if lost, removed, or defaced, shall be immediately replaced.
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 23-27.3-121.4. - Periodic inspection for posting.

§ 23-27.3-121.4. Periodic inspection for posting.
The building official may periodically inspect all existing buildings and structures, except one and two (2) family dwellings, for compliance with this code in respect to posting; or the building official may accept the report of the inspections from a registered professional engineer or architect; and the inspections and reports shall specify any violation of the requirements of this code in respect to the posting of floor load, fire grading, occupancy load, and use group of the building.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1; P.L. 1985, ch. 162, § 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 23-27.3-122.1. - Notice of violation.

§ 23-27.3-122.1. Notice of violation.
The building official shall serve a notice of violation or order on the owner or person responsible for the erection, construction, alteration, extension, repair, removal, demolition, use, or occupancy of a building or structure in violation of the provisions of this code, or in violation of a detail statement or a plan approved thereunder, or in violation of a permit or certificate issued under the provisions of this code; and the order shall direct the discontinuance of the illegal action or condition and the abatement of the violation.
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 23-27.3-122.1.2. - Notice or orders — Service and content.

§ 23-27.3-122.1.2. Notice or orders — Service and content.
Every notice or order authorized by this code shall be in writing and shall be served on the owner or the person responsible as defined in Article 2:
(1)
By any person authorized to serve civil process within the state, by serving a copy of the order or notice personally upon the owner or person responsible or by leaving a copy of the order or notice at the owner or person responsible’s last and usual place of abode; or
(2)
By sending the owner or person responsible a copy of the order or notice by regular mail and certified mail, to the last known address of the owner or owners; or
(3)
If the last and usual place of abode of the owner or person responsible is unknown, and a due and diligent search fails to locate the individual, by posting a copy of the order or notice in a conspicuous place on or about the premises in violation.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1; P.L. 1985, ch. 162, § 1; P.L. 1989, ch. 177, § 1; P.L. 1989, ch. 542, § 56.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 2 - New Buildings and Structures › Section 23-27.3-122.2. - Prosecution of violation.

§ 23-27.3-122.2. Prosecution of violation.
If the notice of violation is not answered and corrections scheduled as approved and complied with within thirty (30) days after service, unless otherwise provided in this code, the building official may request legal counsel of the municipality to institute the appropriate proceeding at law or in equity in a court of competent jurisdiction, including municipal housing courts, the municipal court of the town of Westerly, and the municipal court of the town of North Providence now existing or hereafter established by action of the general assembly, to restrain, correct, or abate the violations or to require the removal or termination of the unlawful use of the building or structure in violation of the provisions of this code or of the order or direction made pursuant thereto. The court action shall have precedence on the calendar after court actions commenced pursuant to § 34-18-10, and shall continue to have precedence on the calendar on a day-to-day basis until the matter is heard.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1; P.L. 1987, ch. 526, § 1; P.L. 1989, ch. 180, § 1; P.L. 1996, ch. 214, § 3; P.L. 2008, ch. 77, § 1; P.L. 2008, ch. 471, § 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 23-27.3-122.3. - Penalties.

§ 23-27.3-122.3. Penalties.
Every person who shall violate any provision of this code shall be punished by imprisonment in the adult correctional institution for not more than one year, or by a fine of not more than five hundred dollars ($500), or both, for each violation. Each day during which any portion of a violation continues shall constitute a separate offense.
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 23-27.3-122.4. - Abatement of violations.

§ 23-27.3-122.4. Abatement of violations.
The imposition of the penalties prescribed in this code shall not preclude the building official from instituting appropriate action to prevent unlawful construction or to restrain, correct, or abate a violation, or to prevent illegal occupancy of a building, structure, or premises, or to stop an illegal act, conduct business, or use of a building or structure in or about any premises.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 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 23-27.3-123.0. - Stop-work order.

§ 23-27.3-123.0. Stop-work order.
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 23-27.3-123.1. - Notice to owner.

§ 23-27.3-123.1. Notice to owner.
Upon notice from the building official that any work on a building or structure is being prosecuted contrary to the provisions of this code or in an unsafe or dangerous manner, the work shall be immediately stopped. The stop-work order shall be in writing and shall be served on the owner, as defined in Article 2, or on the person responsible as provided in § 23-27.3-122.1.2; and shall state the conditions under which work may be resumed; provided, however, that in instances where immediate action is deemed necessary for public health, safety, and welfare, or in the public interest, the building official may require that work be stopped upon verbal order.
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 23-27.3-123.1.1. - Posting of order.

§ 23-27.3-123.1.1. Posting of order.
A stop-work notice shall be posted in a conspicuous place on the job site and shall be removed only at the direction of the building official.
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 23-27.3-123.2. - Unlawful continuance.

§ 23-27.3-123.2. Unlawful continuance.
Any person who shall continue any work in or about the job site after having been served with a stop-work order, except work as he or she is directed to perform to remove a violation or unsafe condition, shall be liable to prosecution as provided in § 23-27.3-122.0.
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 23-27.3-124.0. - Unsafe structures — General provisions.

§ 23-27.3-124.0. Unsafe structures — General provisions.
All buildings, signs, or other structures or any portion thereof shall be kept and maintained in a safe and sound condition at all times by the owner or the owner’s authorized agent.
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 23-27.3-124.1. - Unsafe conditions.

§ 23-27.3-124.1. Unsafe conditions.
A building, sign, or structure shall be declared unsafe by the building official if any one of the following conditions exists upon the premises:
(1)
The building is vacant, unguarded, and open at doors or windows thereby permitting unauthorized entry; or
(2)
There is a hazardous accumulation of dust, debris, or other combustible material therein; or
(3)
There is a falling away, hanging loose or loosening of any siding, block, brick, or other building material; or
(4)
There is a deterioration of the structure, or structural parts, or a structural weakness exists whereby the continued use and occupancy would endanger the lives of the occupants or those using public or private land in the immediate area; or
(5)
The building has been partially destroyed or has been substantially damaged by the elements, acts of God, fire, explosion, or otherwise, and is vacant, regardless of whether or not the building is secured to prevent unauthorized entry; or
(6)
The building or structure has been vacant or unused for more than one hundred eighty (180) days, whether or not it has been boarded, guarded, and/or closed at all doors and windows, and has remained in a condition such that the repairs necessary to make the building or structure safe and sanitary for occupancy exceed fifty percent (50%) of the fair market value of the building or structure in its present condition.
(7)
The building, sign, or structure constitutes a fire or windstorm hazard or is, in the opinion of the building official, otherwise dangerous to human life or public health, safety, and welfare; or
(8)
There is an unusual sagging or leaning out of plumb of the building or any parts of the building, and the effect is caused by deterioration or over-stressing; or
(9)
The electrical or mechanical installation or systems create a hazardous condition contrary to the standards of this code or the code in effect at the time of construction; or
(10)
An unsanitary condition exists by reason of inadequate or malfunctioning sanitary facilities or waste disposal systems; or
(11)
The use or occupancy of the building is illegal or improper because the building does not comply with the allowable areas, height, type of construction, fire resistance, means of egress, liveload, or other features regulated by the code in effect at the time of construction; or
(12)
Whenever the building or structure has been so damaged by fire, wind, or flood, or has become so dilapidated or deteriorated as to become an attractive nuisance to children who might play therein to their danger.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1; P.L. 1991, ch. 262, § 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 23-27.3-124.2. - Notice of unsafe condition.

§ 23-27.3-124.2. Notice of unsafe condition.
When the whole or any part of any building, sign, or other structure shall be declared to be in an unsafe condition, the building official shall issue a notice of the unsafe condition to the owner of record describing the building or structure deemed unsafe, and an order either requiring that the building, sign, or structure be made safe or be demolished within a reasonable, stipulated time. All notices and orders shall be in writing and shall be delivered to the owners of the building by the building official or his or her designated agent or shall be sent by registered or certified mail to the last known address of the owner or owners. Orders to demolish any building, a sign, or structure shall also be issued to all mortgagees of record. If any owner or mortgagee cannot be located after due and diligent search, the notice and order shall be posted upon a conspicuous part of the building or structure, and the procedure shall be deemed the equivalent of personal notice. When a building or structure is ordered secured for any reason by the building official, the owner shall board the building or structure in accordance with § 23-27.3-124.6 within seven (7) days, or the building official may cause the necessary work to be done to secure the building or structure. The cost of the work shall be billed to the owner and be a lien against the real property as provided in § 23-27.3-125.7.
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 23-27.3-124.3. - Appeals.

§ 23-27.3-124.3. Appeals.
The owner shall either comply with the order or shall appeal the order to the local board of appeals within thirty (30) days of mailing or posting of the notice and order. There shall be no appeal to the order to board an unsecured or vacant building or structure. The board of appeals shall, if requested by the owner, hold a hearing where it will either confirm, modify, or revoke the notice and order of the building official in accordance with the provisions of § 23-27.3-126.0 as may be deemed just and proper in the interest of public health, safety, and welfare.
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 23-27.3-124.4. - Restoration of unsafe buildings.

§ 23-27.3-124.4. Restoration of unsafe buildings.
A building, sign, or structure declared unsafe by the building official shall be restored to a safe and usable condition in one of the following manners:
(1)
When no change in use or occupancy is contemplated or compelled and the reconstruction or restoration is less than fifty percent (50%) of the physical value of the building, sign, or structure as defined in § 23-27.3-106.5, the building, sign, or structure shall be repaired in accordance with the applicable requirements of the rehabilitation building and fire code for existing buildings and structures, or if the rehabilitation code for existing buildings and structures is not applicable, the applicable requirements of § 23-27.3-106.3 or § 23-27.3-106.4; or
(2)
When a change in use or occupancy is contemplated or compelled, or reconstruction or restoration is in excess of fifty percent (50%) of the physical value of the building, sign, or structure as defined in § 23-27.3-106.5, exclusive of foundations, the building, sign, or structure shall be made to comply in all respects with the requirements for materials and methods set forth in the rehabilitation building and fire code for existing buildings and structures, or if said code does not apply, the requirements for materials and methods for new buildings, signs, or structures erected under the provisions of this code.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1; P.L. 2000, ch. 185, § 1; P.L. 2000, ch. 290, § 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 23-27.3-124.4.1. - Compliance.

§ 23-27.3-124.4.1. Compliance.
The owner of an unsafe building, sign, or other structure shall obtain the necessary permits to perform the restoration or reconstruction work required by the building official within thirty (30) days of the receipt of the notice of an unsafe condition and shall proceed immediately with the work as required in § 23-27.3-114.2 of this code. The work shall continue until the unsafe condition has been abated.
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 23-27.3-124.5. - Disregard of unsafe notice.

§ 23-27.3-124.5. Disregard of unsafe notice.
When an owner or the owner’s authorized agent has been served with a notice of an unsafe condition and fails to comply with the order to either make the building, sign, or structure safe or to have it demolished within a stipulated time and has not appealed the order to the local board of appeals within the thirty (30) days required, the legal counsel of the municipality shall be advised and shall institute the appropriation action to compel compliance as provided in § 23-27.3-122.0. If in the opinion of the building official the condition poses an immediate danger to the public health, safety, and welfare, the building official shall cause all the necessary work to be done to either make the building, sign, or structure safe or to have it demolished. The cost of the work shall be billed to the owner and shall be a lien against the real property as provided in § 23-27.3-125.7.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1.