reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 46 - Waters and Navigation › Chapter 46-20 - Ditches and Drains › Section 46-20-1. - Petition to drain across lands of another.

§ 46-20-1. Petition to drain across lands of another.
Whenever the owner or owners of any lands in this state may wish to drain the lands, and cannot agree with the proprietor or proprietors of the adjacent land or lands to be affected, as to the mode of draining the land or lands and the damages consequent thereon, the owner or owners may prefer a petition to the town council of the town in which the lands are situated, for power to drain the land or lands across the lands of other proprietors. The petition shall set forth the course of the proposed ditch or drain, and the names of the proprietors whose lands are to be affected thereby, and the petitioner shall file a bond in such sum as the town council shall direct, conditioned to pay all costs of the proceedings in case it shall be determined inexpedient to construct the ditch or drain.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 76, § 1; G.L. 1909, ch. 90, § 1; G.L. 1923, ch. 102, § 1; G.L. 1938, ch. 350, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 46-20-1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 46 - Waters and Navigation › Chapter 46-20 - Ditches and Drains › Section 46-20-2. - Notice of hearing on petition.

§ 46-20-2. Notice of hearing on petition.
On receipt of the petition as aforesaid, the town council shall refer the matter to some day for a hearing, and shall cause notice to be served on all parties interested, of the substance of the petition and the time and place of the hearing thereon, at least twenty (20) days before the hearing. In case any parties interested are not residents of the state, notice shall be given by sending the citation by mail to their last known place of abode, and by publishing a notice of the pendency of the petition, in some newspaper published in the county, for three (3) weeks before the time appointed for the hearing.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 76, § 2; G.L. 1909, ch. 90, § 2; G.L. 1923, ch. 102, § 2; G.L. 1938, ch. 350, § 2; G.L. 1956, § 46-20-2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 46 - Waters and Navigation › Chapter 46-20 - Ditches and Drains › Section 46-20-3. - Determination of best method of drainage — Apportionment of damages — Action by council.

§ 46-20-3. Determination of best method of drainage — Apportionment of damages — Action by council.
If the town council, after hearing the parties in interest, shall deem it advisable, they shall appoint three (3) judicious and disinterested persons who shall prescribe the best mode of draining the land or lands and shall apportion the damages and benefits between the parties in interest, and shall make a report in writing of their doings to the council, and the council shall appoint a day for hearing the parties interested, and, after notice as provided in § 46-20-2, shall consider the report, and accept or reject the report in whole or in part, as justice shall require, and the council may make such orders thereon as they shall deem lawful and right.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 76, § 3; G.L. 1909, ch. 90, § 3; G.L. 1923, ch. 102, § 3; G.L. 1938, ch. 350, § 3; G.L. 1956, § 46-20-3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 46 - Waters and Navigation › Chapter 46-20 - Ditches and Drains › Section 46-20-4. - Appeal.

§ 46-20-4. Appeal.
If either of the parties interested shall be aggrieved by the doings or orders of the town council, that party, or that party’s heir or devisee, may appeal therefrom, according to the provisions of law, with reference to appeals from town councils.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 76, § 4; C.P.A. 1905, § 1106; G.L. 1909, ch. 90, § 4; G.L. 1923, ch. 102, § 4; G.L. 1938, ch. 350, § 4; G.L. 1956, § 46-20-4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 46 - Waters and Navigation › Chapter 46-20 - Ditches and Drains › Section 46-20-5. - Costs.

§ 46-20-5. Costs.
The costs of the petition and all the proceedings thereon under this chapter shall be taxed at the discretion of the town council or of the court, and execution shall issue therefor as in civil cases.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 76, § 5; G.L. 1909, ch. 90, § 5; G.L. 1923, ch. 102, § 5; G.L. 1938, ch. 350, § 5; G.L. 1956, § 46-20-5.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 46 - Waters and Navigation › Chapter 46-22 - Regulation of Boats › Section 46-22-1. - Declaration of policy.

§ 46-22-1. Declaration of policy.
It is the policy of this state to promote safety for person and property in and connected with the use, operation, and equipment of vessels, and to promote uniformity of laws relating thereto.
History of Section.
P.L. 1959, ch. 187, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 46 - Waters and Navigation › Chapter 46-22 - Regulation of Boats › Section 46-22-2. - Definitions.

§ 46-22-2. Definitions.
As used in this chapter, unless the context clearly requires a different meaning:
(1) “Director”
means the director of the department of environmental management.
(2) “Motorboat”
means any vessel whether or not the vessel is propelled by machinery. For purposes of this chapter, motorboat shall not include houseboats as defined in § 44-5-25.1, canoes, and rowboats twelve feet (12′) in length or less.
(3) “Operate”
means to navigate or otherwise use a motorboat or a vessel.
(4) “Owner”
means a person, other than a lien holder, having the property in or title to a motorboat. The term includes a person entitled to the use or possession of a motorboat subject to an interest in another person, reserved, or created by agreement and securing payment or performance of an obligation, but the term excludes a lessee under a lease not intended as security.
(5) “Person”
means an individual, partnership, firm, corporation, association, or other entity.
(6) “Personal watercraft”
means a small class A vessel less than sixteen feet (16′) in length which uses an outboard motor or an inboard motor powering a water jet pump as its primary source of motive power; and which is designed to be operated by a person sitting, standing, or kneeling on, or being towed behind the vessel, rather than the conventional manner of sitting or standing inside of the vessel.
(7) “Vessel”
means every description of watercraft, other than a seaplane on the water, used or capable of being used as a means of transportation on water.
(8) “Waters of this state”
means any waters within the territorial limits of this state, and the marginal sea adjacent to this state and the high seas when navigated as a part of a journey or ride to or from the shore of this state.
History of Section.
P.L. 1959, ch. 187, § 1; P.L. 1985, ch. 370, § 1; P.L. 1990, ch. 65, art. 24, § 2; P.L. 2001, ch. 178, § 1; P.L. 2001, ch. 384, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 46 - Waters and Navigation › Chapter 46-22 - Regulation of Boats › Section 46-22-3. - Operation of unnumbered motorboats prohibited.

§ 46-22-3. Operation of unnumbered motorboats prohibited.
(a)
Every motorboat on the waters of this state shall be numbered.
(b)
No person shall operate or give permission for the operation of any motorboat on those waters unless the motorboat is numbered in accordance with this chapter, or in accordance with applicable federal law, or in accordance with a federally approved numbering system of another state, and unless:
(1)
The certificate of number awarded to the motorboat is in full force and effect, and
(2)
The identifying number set forth in the certificate of number is displayed on each side of the bow of the motorboat.
History of Section.
P.L. 1959, ch. 187, § 1; P.L. 2007, ch. 340, § 56.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 46 - Waters and Navigation › Chapter 46-22 - Regulation of Boats › Section 46-22-6. - Exemption from numbering provisions of this chapter.

§ 46-22-6. Exemption from numbering provisions of this chapter.
A motorboat shall not be required to be numbered under this chapter if it is:
(1)
Already covered by a number in full force and effect which has been awarded to it pursuant to federal law or federally approved numbering system of another state; provided, however, in the event the boat is to be operated on the waters of this state in excess of ninety (90) days, the owner shall record the number with the department of environmental management, division of boating safety, and pay the fees required under this chapter.
(2)
A motorboat from a country other than the United States temporarily using the waters of this state.
(3)
A motorboat whose owner is the United States, a state, or a subdivision thereof.
(4)
A ship’s lifeboat.
(5)
A motorboat used exclusively for racing.
(6)
A houseboat as defined in § 44-5-25.1.
(7)
A rowboat twelve feet (12′) in length or less.
(8)
A canoe.
(9)
A ferry.
History of Section.
P.L. 1959, ch. 187, § 1; P.L. 1965, ch. 134, § 1; P.L. 1985, ch. 370, § 1; P.L. 1990, ch. 65, art. 24, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 46 - Waters and Navigation › Chapter 46-22 - Regulation of Boats › Section 46-22-7. - Boat liveries.

§ 46-22-7. Boat liveries.
(a)
The owner of a boat livery shall cause to be kept a record of the name and address of the person or persons hiring any vessel which is designed or permitted by him or her to be operated as a motorboat; the identification number thereof; and the departure date and time, and the expected time of return. The record shall be preserved for at least six (6) months.
(b)
Neither the owner of a boat livery nor his or her agent or employee shall permit any motorboat or any vessel designed or permitted by him or her to be operated as a motorboat to depart from his or her premises unless it shall have been provided, either by owner or renter, with the equipment required pursuant to § 46-22-5, and any rules and regulations made pursuant thereto.
History of Section.
P.L. 1959, ch. 187, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 46 - Waters and Navigation › Chapter 46-22 - Regulation of Boats › Section 46-22-8. - Muffling devices.

§ 46-22-8. Muffling devices.
The exhaust of every internal combustion engine used on any motorboat shall be effectively muffled by equipment so constructed and used as to muffle the noise of the exhaust in a reasonable manner. Outboard motors shall be equipped with underwater exhausts of standard manufacture as furnished by marine supply dealers. The use of cutouts is prohibited, except for motorboats competing in a regatta or boat race approved as provided in § 46-22-13, and for such motorboats while on trial-runs approved as provided in § 46-22-13(b), or during a period not to exceed forty-eight (48) hours immediately preceding the regatta or race and for the motorboats, while competing in official trials for speed records, during a period not to exceed forty-eight (48) hours immediately following the regatta or race.
History of Section.
P.L. 1959, ch. 187, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 46 - Waters and Navigation › Chapter 46-22 - Regulation of Boats › Section 46-22-9. - Prohibited operation.

§ 46-22-9. Prohibited operation.
(a)
No person shall operate any motorboat or vessel, or manipulate any water skis, surfboard, or similar device in a reckless manner so as to endanger the life, limb, or property of another.
(b)
No person shall operate any motorboat or vessel or manipulate any water skis, surfboard, or similar device while intoxicated or under the influence of any narcotic drug, barbiturate, or marijuana. A person arrested and charged with operating any motorboat or vessel, or manipulating any water skis, surfboard, or similar device, while under the influence of intoxicating liquor or narcotic or habit-forming drugs, shall have the right to be examined at his or her own expense immediately after his or her arrest, by a physician selected by him or her, and the officer so arresting or so charging that person shall immediately inform that person of this right and afford him or her a reasonable opportunity to exercise this right, and at the trial of that person the prosecution must prove that he or she was so informed and was afforded the opportunity.
(c)
No person shall operate a motorboat or vessel within a water area, which has been clearly marked, in accordance with, and as authorized by, the laws of the state, by buoys or some other distinguishing device as a bathing, swimming, or otherwise restricted area; provided, that this section shall not apply in the case of an emergency, or to patrol or rescue craft. The department of environmental management, is hereby authorized to establish maximum speeds for boats in the public harbors in the state of Rhode Island at five (5) miles per hour, no wake. Any such speed limits duly established by the department of environmental management, pursuant hereto, shall have the full force and effect of law, and a violation thereof shall be a misdemeanor in accordance with the penalties enumerated in § 46-22-19(3).
(d)
No person shall operate any motorboat, vessel, or seaplane in a manner which shall unreasonably or unnecessarily interfere with any other motorboat, vessel, or seaplane, or with the free and proper navigation of the waterways of the state. Anchoring under bridges or in heavily traveled channels shall constitute interference if unreasonable under the prevailing circumstances.
(e)
No motorboat, vessel, or seaplane shall be docked or made fast to any pier, wharf, or other shore structure without the consent of the owner thereof, except in the case of an emergency.
History of Section.
P.L. 1959, ch. 187, § 1; P.L. 1969, ch. 62, § 1; P.L. 1977, ch. 86, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 46 - Waters and Navigation › Chapter 46-22 - Regulation of Boats › Section 46-22-9.1. - Houseboats — Exclusion from coastal ponds.

§ 46-22-9.1. Houseboats — Exclusion from coastal ponds.
(a)
No person shall live on a houseboat on any coastal pond in this state.
(b)
As used in this section,
“houseboat,”
means a building constructed on a float, raft, or barge that is used for single or multiple family habitation or is represented as a place of business. If used as a means of transportation, this use is secondary.
“Houseboat”
includes platforms, and waterborne hotels and restaurants.
(c)
A
“coastal pond”
, as used in this section, shall be as designated or defined in the rules and regulations of the coastal resources management council.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 369, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 46 - Waters and Navigation › Chapter 46-22 - Regulation of Boats › Section 46-22-9.2. - Flotation devices — Children.

§ 46-22-9.2. Flotation devices — Children.
Any person transporting a child under thirteen (13) years of age in a recreational vessel less than sixty-five (65) feet in length on the waters of this state shall require that the child wear a personal flotation device approved by the United States Coast Guard when underway, unless below deck or in a closed cabin.
History of Section.
P.L. 1990, ch. 47, § 1; P.L. 1992, ch. 362, § 1; P.L. 2006, ch. 329, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 46 - Waters and Navigation › Chapter 46-22 - Regulation of Boats › Section 46-22-9.3. - Operating so as to endanger, resulting in death.

§ 46-22-9.3. Operating so as to endanger, resulting in death.
(a)
When the death of any person ensues as a proximate result of an injury received by the operation of any vessel in reckless disregard of the safety of others, the person so operating such vessel shall be guilty of “operating so as to endanger, resulting in death.”
(b)
Any person charged with the commission of the foregoing shall upon conviction be imprisoned for not more than ten (10) years.
History of Section.
P.L. 1991, ch. 121, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 46 - Waters and Navigation › Chapter 46-22 - Regulation of Boats › Section 46-22-9.4. - Operating so as to endanger, resulting in personal injury.

§ 46-22-9.4. Operating so as to endanger, resulting in personal injury.
(a)
When the serious bodily injury of any person ensues as a proximate result of the operation of any vessel in reckless disregard of the safety of others, the person so operating such vessel shall be guilty of “operating so as to endanger, resulting in personal injury.”
(b) “Serious bodily injury”
means physical injury that creates a substantial risk of death or causes serious permanent disfigurement or protracted loss or impairment of the function of any bodily member or organ.
(c)
Any person charged with a violation of this section shall upon conviction be imprisoned for not more than five (5) years and shall be required to take a boating safety course.
History of Section.
P.L. 1991, ch. 121, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 46 - Waters and Navigation › Chapter 46-22 - Regulation of Boats › Section 46-22-9.5. - Speeding.

§ 46-22-9.5. Speeding.
(a)
No person shall operate any motor-boat or vessel in any harbor or inlet or any pond or other confined body of water in this state in excess of forty-five (45) miles per hour during the hours from sunrise to sunset and twenty-five (25) miles per hour during periods of darkness or other periods of restricted visibility; provided, however, nothing herein shall prohibit the posting of lesser speed limits where deemed necessary by the appropriate state or local authority.
(b)
Violations of this section shall be as follows:
(1)
The first violation, if no greater than ten (10) miles per hour over the speed limit, shall be a civil offense which shall require payment of a twenty-five dollar ($25.00) assessment fee and the violator may be required to attend a boating safety course.
(2)
Any violation in excess of ten (10) miles per hour over the speed limit shall be deemed a misdemeanor with fines as follows:
(i)
11-15 miles per hour in excess of speed limit
$50.00
(ii)
16-20 miles per hour in excess of speed limit
$75.00
(iii)
21-25 miles per hour in excess of speed limit
$100.00
(iv)
Greater than 25 miles per hour in excess of speed limit:
Fine of five dollars ($5.00) per mile in excess of speed limit.
(v)
The violator shall also be required to attend a boating safety course.
(3)
State, federal, and local law enforcement and rescue agencies may exceed this speed limit when responding to an emergency or law enforcement action: provided that this speed does not endanger any person not involved in this action.
(c)
The operation of personal watercrafts, as defined, use, speed, age of operator, and area of operation shall be regulated by the department of environmental management. Rules and regulations shall be promulgated by the department within three (3) months of June 16, 1991.
History of Section.
P.L. 1991, ch. 121, § 1; P.L. 2007, ch. 340, § 56.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 46 - Waters and Navigation › Chapter 46-22 - Regulation of Boats › Section 46-22-9.6. - False distress or hoax calls.

§ 46-22-9.6. False distress or hoax calls.
(a)
Whoever, knowing it to be false, transmits or causes to be transmitted by radio, telephone, use of emergency flares or other means of communication, the alleged occurrence or impending occurrence of an emergency situation which threatens the life, or safety of a person and/or the loss of property, to any state, federal or local law enforcement or other public safety agency shall be guilty of transmitting a false distress or hoax call.
(b)
Any person charged with the commission of the foregoing shall, upon conviction, be subject to imprisonment not to exceed one year and a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000). In addition to any other fines or penalties imposed under this section, the person or persons convicted shall pay restitution for any cost related to the emergency response to the false or hoax call.
History of Section.
P.L. 2001, ch. 32, § 1; P.L. 2001, ch. 33, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 46 - Waters and Navigation › Chapter 46-22 - Regulation of Boats › Section 46-22-9.7. - Marine safety zones.

§ 46-22-9.7. Marine safety zones.
The director shall formulate a memorandum of understanding with the coastal resources management council and the United States Coast Guard with regard to the establishment of temporary safety zones and/or exclusionary zones.
History of Section.
P.L. 2001, ch. 32, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 46 - Waters and Navigation › Chapter 46-22 - Regulation of Boats › Section 46-22-10. - Collisions, accidents, and casualties.

§ 46-22-10. Collisions, accidents, and casualties.
It shall be the duty of the operator of any motorboat or vessel involved in a collision, accident, or other casualty, so far as he or she can do so without serious danger to his or her own vessel, crew, and passengers (if any), to render to other persons affected by the collision, accident, or other casualty, such assistance as may be practicable and as may be necessary in order to save them from or minimize any danger caused by the collision, accident, or other casualty, and also to give his or her name, address, and identification of his or her vessel in writing to any person injured and to the owner of any property damaged in the collision, accident, or other casualty.
History of Section.
P.L. 1959, ch. 187, § 1; P.L. 1965, ch. 134, § 1; P.L. 1968, ch. 267, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 46 - Waters and Navigation › Chapter 46-22 - Regulation of Boats › Section 46-22-11. - Transmittal of information.

§ 46-22-11. Transmittal of information.
In accordance with any request duly made by an authorized official or agency of the United States, any information compiled or otherwise available to the department of environmental management, pursuant to § 46-22-21 or 46-22-22, shall be transmitted to that official or agency of the United States.
History of Section.
P.L. 1959, ch. 187, § 1; P.L. 1965, ch. 134, § 4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 46 - Waters and Navigation › Chapter 46-22 - Regulation of Boats › Section 46-22-12. - Water skis and surfboards.

§ 46-22-12. Water skis and surfboards.
(a)
No person shall operate a vessel on any waters of this state for towing a person or persons on water skis, or a surfboard, or similar device unless there is in the vessel a person at least twelve (12) years of age, in addition to the operator, in a position to observe the progress of the person or persons being towed. Any person or persons on water skis, a surfboard, a tube or similar device that is being towed behind a vessel on any waters of this state shall be required to wear a life jacket approved by the U.S. Coast Guard.
(b)
No person shall operate a vessel on any waters of this state towing a person or persons on water skis, a surfboard, or similar device, nor shall any person engage in water skiing, surfboarding, or similar activity at any time between the hours from one hour after sunset to one hour before sunrise.
(c)
The provisions of subsections (a) and (b) do not apply to a performer engaged in a professional exhibition or a person or persons engaged in an activity authorized under § 46-22-13.
(d)
No person shall operate or manipulate any vessel, tow rope, or other device by which the direction or location of water skis, a surfboard, or similar device may be affected or controlled in such a way as to cause the water skis, surfboard, or similar device, or any person thereon to collide with or strike against any object or person.
History of Section.
P.L. 1959, ch. 187, § 1; P.L. 1969, ch. 61, § 1; P.L. 1978, ch. 186, § 1; P.L. 2007, ch. 75, § 1; P.L. 2007, ch. 87, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 46 - Waters and Navigation › Chapter 46-22 - Regulation of Boats › Section 46-22-13. - Regattas, races, marine parades, tournaments, or exhibitions.

§ 46-22-13. Regattas, races, marine parades, tournaments, or exhibitions.
(a)
No regatta, motorboat or other boat race, marine parade, tournament, or exhibition (but not including a navigational or piloting contest), in which vessels participating are to be propelled by machinery, may be held on any waters of this state unless authorized by the department of environmental management, as set forth in this section. The department shall adopt and may, from time to time, amend regulations concerning the safety of motorboats and other vessels and persons thereon, either observers or participants.
(1)
Whenever a regatta, motorboat or other boat race, marine parade, tournament, or exhibition is proposed to be held, the person in charge thereof, shall, at least fifteen (15) days prior thereto, file an application with the department of environmental management for permission to hold the regatta, motorboat or other boat race, marine parade, tournament, or exhibition. The application shall set forth the date, time, and location where it is proposed to hold the regatta, motorboat or other boat race, marine parade, tournament, or exhibition, and it shall not be conducted without authorization of the department of environmental management in writing.
(2)
No application for a motorboat race (not including a navigational or a piloting contest), in which vessels participating are to be propelled by machinery on any waters of this state, shall be approved by the department of environmental management until the applicant shall furnish proof to the department that the applicant has in force regatta liability insurance in the following amounts:
(i)
Bodily injury to one person
$10,000
(ii)
Bodily injury to two or more persons
$20,000
(iii)
Property damage – one accident
$5,000
(iv)
Property damage – aggregate
$10,000
(b)
A special permit shall be obtained from the department of environmental management for authorization to engage in a trial run (other than a trial run held under the provisions of§ 46-22-8) for a motorboat regatta or race, with or without cutouts and/or mufflers, the permit setting forth the time, place, and other conditions under which the trial run may be made.
(c)
Motorboats used exclusively for racing, operating on the waters of this state, other than when competing in a duly authorized regatta or race, or making trial runs as set forth in this chapter, shall comply with all the provisions of this chapter.
(d)
The provisions of this section shall not exempt any person from compliance with applicable federal law or regulation, but nothing contained herein shall be construed to require the securing of a state permit pursuant to this section if a permit therefor has been obtained from an authorized agency of the United States.
History of Section.
P.L. 1959, ch. 187, § 1; P.L. 1965, ch. 134, § 2; P.L. 2007, ch. 340, § 56.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 46 - Waters and Navigation › Chapter 46-22 - Regulation of Boats › Section 46-22-13.1. - Marine safety zones.

§ 46-22-13.1. Marine safety zones.
(a)
The director of the department of environmental management is hereby authorized, when necessary for the safety of the public and/or protection of the environment, to establish temporary safety zones on the waters of this state for the purposes of restricting vessel traffic, and direct those persons authorized to enforce the provisions of this chapter to prosecute in district court any violations of any marine safety zone. The director shall coordinate with the U.S. Coast Guard and, when applicable, local harbormasters prior to the establishment of a marine safety zone.
(b)
As described in this section, a temporary marine safety zone shall not exist for longer than seventy-two (72) consecutive hours. Only in the event of an environmental disaster, marine disaster or public safety emergency shall the director have the authority to extend the zone beyond seventy-two (72) hours.
(c)
Any person who violates any provision of this section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and shall be subject to imprisonment not to exceed one year or a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1000), or both, for each violation.
History of Section.
P.L. 2002, ch. 421, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 46 - Waters and Navigation › Chapter 46-22 - Regulation of Boats › Section 46-22-13.2. - Bridge safety.

§ 46-22-13.2. Bridge safety.
All ships whose primary cargo is liquefied natural gas as defined in U.S.C. title 49, § 60101(11) shall have at least thirty feet (30′) of clearance under all of Rhode Island’s bridges. This section shall not apply to boats under sail.
History of Section.
P.L. 2010, ch. 133, § 1; P.L. 2010, ch. 135, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 46 - Waters and Navigation › Chapter 46-22 - Regulation of Boats › Section 46-22-14. - Local regulation.

§ 46-22-14. Local regulation.
(a)
The provisions of this chapter, and of other applicable laws of this state, shall govern the operation, equipment, numbering, and all other matters relating thereto whenever any vessel shall be operated on the waters of this state, or when any activity regulated by this chapter shall take place thereon; but nothing in this chapter shall be construed to prevent the adoption of any ordinance or local law relating to operation and equipment of vessels, the provisions of which are identical to the provisions of this chapter, amendments thereto, or regulations issued thereunder; provided, that the ordinances or local laws shall be operative only so long as and to the extent that they continue to be identical to provisions of this chapter, amendments thereto, or regulations issued thereunder.
(b)
Any subdivision of this state may, at any time, but only after public notice, make formal application to the department of environmental management for special rules and regulations with reference to the operation of vessels on any waters within its territorial limits, and shall set forth therein the reasons which make those special rules or regulations necessary or appropriate.
(c)
The department of environmental management is hereby authorized to make special rules and regulations, not inconsistent with chapter 9 of this title or the rules and regulations issued thereunder, with reference to the operation of vessels not more than sixty-five feet (65′) in length on any waters within the territorial limits of any subdivision of this state.
History of Section.
P.L. 1959, ch. 187, § 1; P.L. 1965, ch. 134, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 46 - Waters and Navigation › Chapter 46-22 - Regulation of Boats › Section 46-22-15. - Owner’s civil liability.

§ 46-22-15. Owner’s civil liability.
The owner of a vessel shall be liable for any injury or damage occasioned by the negligent operation of the vessel, whether the negligence consists of a violation of the provisions of the statutes of this state, or neglecting to observe such ordinary care and such operation as the rules of the common law require. The owner shall not be liable, however, unless the vessel is being used with his or her express or implied consent. It shall be presumed that the vessel is being operated with the knowledge and consent of the owner, if at the time of the injury or damage, it is under the control of his or her spouse, father, mother, brother, sister, son, daughter, or other immediate member of the owner’s family. Nothing contained herein shall be construed to relieve any other person from any liability which he or she would otherwise have, but nothing contained herein shall be construed to authorize or permit any recovery in excess of the injury or damage actually incurred.
History of Section.
P.L. 1959, ch. 187, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 46 - Waters and Navigation › Chapter 46-22 - Regulation of Boats › Section 46-22-15.1. - Operation of boat by nonresident as appointment of attorney to receive process.

§ 46-22-15.1. Operation of boat by nonresident as appointment of attorney to receive process.
Operation of a motorboat on the waters of this state by a nonresident person, his or her servant, or agent shall be deemed equivalent to an appointment by the nonresident of the secretary of state and the secretary’s successor in office, to be his or her true and lawful attorney, upon whom may be served all lawful processes in any action or proceeding against the nonresident, growing out of any accident or collision in which the nonresident, his or her servant, or agent, may be involved while operating a motorboat on the waters of this state, and that operation shall be a signification of the nonresident’s agreement that any such process against him or her, which is served as provided herein, shall be of the same force and validity as if served on him or her personally.
History of Section.
P.L. 1961, ch. 54, § 1; P.L. 1965, ch. 134, § 1; P.L. 1970, ch. 317, § 1; P.L. 1985, ch. 370, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 46 - Waters and Navigation › Chapter 46-22 - Regulation of Boats › Section 46-22-15.2. - Service on nonresident.

§ 46-22-15.2. Service on nonresident.
Service of process as described in § 46-22-15.1, shall be made by leaving a copy of the process with a fee of five dollars ($5.00) in the office of the secretary of state in the hands of the secretary or someone acting in the secretary’s stead and such service shall be sufficient service upon the nonresident; provided, that notice of the service and a copy of the process shall be forthwith sent by the plaintiff or his or her attorney by certified mail to the defendant at the address given upon the defendant’s application for a number, and the sender’s post office receipt of sending and the plaintiff’s or the plaintiff’s attorney’s affidavit of compliance herewith are appended to the process and entered with the declaration, or that the notice and a copy of the process are served upon the defendant by leaving the same in the defendant’s hands and possession by a duly constituted public officer qualified to serve civil process in the state or jurisdiction where the defendant is found, and that officer’s return showing the service to have been made at least fifteen (15) days before the return day of the process is appended to the process and entered with declaration. The court in which the action is pending may order such continuances as may be necessary to afford the defendant reasonable opportunity to defend the action.
History of Section.
P.L. 1961, ch. 54, § 1; P.L. 1965, ch. 134, § 1; P.L. 1970, ch. 317, § 1; P.L. 1985, ch. 370, § 1; P.L. 1991, ch. 354, § 11.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 46 - Waters and Navigation › Chapter 46-22 - Regulation of Boats › Section 46-22-15.3. - Process fees as costs — Record of process.

§ 46-22-15.3. Process fees as costs — Record of process.
The fee of five dollars ($5.00), paid by the plaintiff to the administrator of the division of motor vehicles at the time of the service shall be taxed in the plaintiff’s costs if he or she prevails in the suit. The administrator of the division of motor vehicles shall keep a record of all such process, which shall show the day and hour of service, and all fees so paid shall be paid over to the general treasurer.
History of Section.
P.L. 1961, ch. 54, § 1; G.L. 1956, ch. 134, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 46 - Waters and Navigation › Chapter 46-22 - Regulation of Boats › Section 46-22-16. - Boat manufacturers and dealers.

§ 46-22-16. Boat manufacturers and dealers.
The director is authorized to promulgate regulations governing the issuance of fourteen (14) day temporary numbers to be used by qualified manufacturers or dealers in transporting or demonstrating motorboats. The director may set rules qualifying dealers and manufacturers.
History of Section.
P.L. 1959, ch. 187, § 1; P.L. 1965, ch. 134, § 5; P.L. 1985, ch. 370, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 46 - Waters and Navigation › Chapter 46-22 - Regulation of Boats › Section 46-22-17. - Enforcement.

§ 46-22-17. Enforcement.
The department of environmental management, harbormasters, assistant harbormasters, police officers authorized to make arrests, and employees of the department of environmental management, authorized to make arrests under the provisions of §§ 2-12-8, 20-1-12, and 20-1-15, shall have the authority to enforce the provisions of this chapter and, in the exercise thereof, shall have the authority to stop and board any vessel subject to this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1959, ch. 187, § 1; P.L. 1965, ch. 134, § 7; P.L. 1983, ch. 107, § 5; 1984, ch. 171, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 46 - Waters and Navigation › Chapter 46-22 - Regulation of Boats › Section 46-22-17.1. - Enforcement power of employees of the department of environmental management.

§ 46-22-17.1. Enforcement power of employees of the department of environmental management.
(a)
Employees of the department of environmental management, authorized to make arrests under the provisions of chapter 1 of title 20, shall, in connection with the enforcement of the provisions of this chapter, be deemed officers within the meaning of § 11-32-1 and shall have the power:
(1)
To enforce all laws, rules, and regulations relating to this chapter;
(2)
To execute all warrants and search warrants for the violation of laws, rules, and regulations relating to this chapter;
(3)
To serve subpoenas issued for the trial of all offenses hereunder;
(4)
To carry firearms or other weapons, concealed or otherwise, in the course of and in performance of their duties under this chapter; and
(5)
To arrest, without warrant and on view, any person found violating any law, rule, or regulation relating to this chapter; take that person before a court having jurisdiction for trial; detain that person in custody at the expense of the state until arraignment; and to make and execute complaints within any district to the justice or clerk of the court against any person for any of the offenses enumerated under this chapter, committed within that district.
(b)
Employees of the department of environmental management authorized to make arrests under the provisions of § 2-12-8, shall, in connection with the enforcement of the provisions of this chapter and the rules and regulations made thereunder, have the power to arrest without a warrant any person found in the act of violating any provision of this chapter, and shall not be required to give surety for costs upon any complaint made by him or her.
History of Section.
P.L. 1965, ch. 134, § 8.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 46 - Waters and Navigation › Chapter 46-22 - Regulation of Boats › Section 46-22-17.2. - Prosecution of violations.

§ 46-22-17.2. Prosecution of violations.
The director of the department of environmental management and the director’s deputies and assistants may, by virtue of their respective offices, make complaints of any violations of this chapter, and they shall not be required, either jointly or individually, to give recognizance or to furnish surety for costs or be liable for costs on those complaints.
History of Section.
P.L. 1965, ch. 134, § 8.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 46 - Waters and Navigation › Chapter 46-22 - Regulation of Boats › Section 46-22-17.3. - Refusal to stop on order or command.

§ 46-22-17.3. Refusal to stop on order or command.
It shall be a misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of not more than one hundred dollars ($100), for any person to refuse to move or stop on oral command or order of any employee of the department of environmental management in the exercise of the employee’s duties under this chapter. It shall likewise be a misdemeanor, punishable as aforesaid, for any person to refuse to move or stop on oral command of a harbormaster, assistant harbormaster, or police officer, operating from a patrol boat identified as such and exercising the duties lawfully assigned to him or her.
History of Section.
P.L. 1965, ch. 134, § 8; P.L. 1970, ch. 209, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 46 - Waters and Navigation › Chapter 46-22 - Regulation of Boats › Section 46-22-18. - Funds.

§ 46-22-18. Funds.
All money collected under the provisions of this chapter shall be paid into a restricted receipt account of the department of environmental management to be made available and shall be allocated, distributed and used in amounts sufficient to fully fund:
(1)
Expenses of the department of environmental management, incurred in the administration and enforcement of this chapter;
(2)
Expenses of boating safety, boating safety services and programs, boating education, marine patrols, enforcement training programs, and promotion and publicity relating to boating and boating safety and equipment related to boating safety;
(3)
Grants for the purpose set forth in subdivision (2) above;
(4)
Maintenance and improvement of recreational, commercial and navigational facilities relating to boating safety; including, but not limited to, the installation, financing, improvement, and maintenance of aids to navigation, and support facilities; and
(5)
Expenses incurred in cooperation with the government of the United States in boating and boating safety matters.
(6)
To the extent otherwise authorized by the general laws, funding services to mariners.
History of Section.
P.L. 1959, ch. 187, § 1; P.L. 1965, ch. 134, § 10; P.L. 1985, ch. 370, § 1; P.L. 1990, ch. 65, art. 24, § 2; P.L. 1991, ch. 44, art. 16, § 1; P.L. 1992, ch. 133, art. 16, § 1; P.L. 1993, ch. 138, art. 17, § 1; P.L. 1995, ch. 370, art. 40, § 161; P.L. 1998, ch. 31, art. 20, § 1; P.L. 2007, ch. 340, § 56.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 46 - Waters and Navigation › Chapter 46-22 - Regulation of Boats › Section 46-22-19. - Penalties.

§ 46-22-19. Penalties.
In addition to any other penalties specified in this chapter:
(1)
Any person who violates any provision of §§ 46-22-3 — 46-22-5, 46-22-8, 46-22-9.2, 46-22-10, and 46-22-13, or who violates any rule or regulation made under the provisions of those sections shall be guilty of a civil violation and be subject to a fine not to exceed one hundred dollars ($100) for each violation. Jurisdiction over violations of this subsection shall be with the traffic tribunal. In accordance with chapter 42-17.10, any person charged with violating any rule or regulation made under the provisions of this subsection may elect to dispose of the charge without personally appearing before the traffic tribunal by mailing or delivering the form and summons to the traffic tribunal with a check or money order in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100).
(2)
Any person who violates any provision of §§ 46-22-7 and 46-22-12 shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and shall be subject to a fine not to exceed two hundred dollars ($200) for each violation.
(3)
Any person who violates any provision of §§ 46-22-9 and 46-22-9.1 shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and shall be subject to a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000), or imprisonment not to exceed one year, or both for each violation.
History of Section.
P.L. 1959, ch. 187, § 1; P.L. 1965, ch. 134, § 9; P.L. 1981, ch. 369, § 2; P.L. 1985, ch. 370, § 1; P.L. 1988, ch. 84, § 17; P.L. 1988, ch. 153, § 1; P.L. 1990, ch. 47, § 2; P.L. 1991, ch. 124, § 1; P.L. 2007, ch. 253, § 8; P.L. 2007, ch. 294, § 8.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 46 - Waters and Navigation › Chapter 46-22 - Regulation of Boats › Section 46-22-20. - Severability.

§ 46-22-20. Severability.
The provisions of this chapter shall be severable and, if any of the provisions shall be held invalid, the decision of the court respecting that provision or provisions shall not affect the validity of any other provision which can be given effect without that invalid provision.
History of Section.
P.L. 1959, ch. 187, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 46 - Waters and Navigation › Chapter 46-22 - Regulation of Boats › Section 46-22-21. - Reporting of accidents, casualty, vandalism, and thefts.

§ 46-22-21. Reporting of accidents, casualty, vandalism, and thefts.
The operator or owner of a vessel on the waters of this state, involved, or whose vessel is involved, in an accident, casualty, vandalism, or theft in excess of two thousand dollars ($2,000), or other casualty which results in death or injury to a person, shall report the same, and immediately give notice of the incident to the department of environmental management or to a nearby office of local or state police. In the event the local or state police are notified, it shall be the duty of the officer receiving the notice to immediately give notice of the incident to the of department of environmental management. In the event the department of environmental management is notified, it shall be the duty of the employee of the department receiving the notice to give notice of the incident to the state and local police of the city or town wherein the incident occurred within twenty-four hours (24) hours in the following circumstances: thefts in excess of one hundred dollars ($100), or any accident which results in bodily injury or death to a person. In order to allow more complete investigations of theft, all motorboats manufactured after 1971, required to apply for numbering in § 46-22-3, shall provide to the department of environmental management, at the time of their next annual application, the full hull identification number of the vessel. Homemade vessels may apply to the department for identification numbers. The director may promulgate regulations for the enforcement of this requirement.
History of Section.
P.L. 1968, ch. 267, § 2; P.L. 1985, ch. 370, § 1; P.L. 1991, ch. 124, § 1; P.L. 2005, ch. 38, § 1; P.L. 2005, ch. 55, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 46 - Waters and Navigation › Chapter 46-22 - Regulation of Boats › Section 46-22-22. - Owner required to make written reports.

§ 46-22-22. Owner required to make written reports.
The owner of a vessel involved in an accident, casualty, vandalism, or theft in excess of five hundred dollars ($500), shall, within five (5) days after the incident, forward a written report of the incident to the department of environmental management, on forms provided by the department.
History of Section.
P.L. 1968, ch. 267, § 2; P.L. 1991, ch. 124, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 46 - Waters and Navigation › Chapter 46-22 - Regulation of Boats › Section 46-22-23. - Maximum speed within the city of Warwick.

§ 46-22-23. Maximum speed within the city of Warwick.
The Warwick park and waterfront development commission is hereby authorized to establish maximum speed limits for boats in the public harbors of the city of Warwick at five (5) miles per hour. Any speed limits duly established by the commission, pursuant hereto, shall have the force and effect of law, and a violation thereof shall be a misdemeanor.
History of Section.
P.L. 1970, ch. 209, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 46 - Waters and Navigation › Chapter 46-22 - Regulation of Boats › Section 46-22-24. - Scuba divers, skin diving, or snorkeling — Warning flags.

§ 46-22-24. Scuba divers, skin diving, or snorkeling — Warning flags.
(a)
Any person scuba diving, skin diving, or snorkeling in an area where power or motor boats are operated, shall place a warning flag on a buoy at a place of his or her submergence, the flag to be at least twelve by twelve inches (12" X 12") with a white stripe running from the diagonal corners which stripe shall be one quarter (¼) as wide as the flag, or conspicuously flown upon a boat which he or she is then using in the area, in which case the flag shall be at least eighteen by eighteen inches (18" X 18") and with a white stripe running from one upper corner to a diagonal lower corner, which stripe shall be one quarter (¼) as wide as the flag itself. The flag shall be in place only while diving operations are in progress and, during the hours between sunset and sunrise, this flag shall be illuminated by a light shining on the flag. Motorboats shall not be operated within fifty feet (50′) of any flag as above described. No person shall be in violation of this section if he or she travels within fifty feet (50′) of a scuba diver or snorkeler who is in fact obstructing navigation.
(b)
Any person violating the provisions of this section shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor and shall be subject to a fine of not more than fifty dollars ($50.00).
(c)
However, any person using the above scuba diving, snorkel diving, or skin diving flag with the intention of obstructing navigation shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and shall also be subject to a fine of not more than fifty dollars ($50.00).
History of Section.
P.L. 1973, ch. 112, § 1; P.L. 1974, ch. 233, § 1; P.L. 1978, ch. 186, § 2.