Opinion ID: 2348641
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 1

Heading: Pertinent Legislation

Text: In 1991 the Legislature enacted the Rhode Island Zoning Enabling Act. G.L. 1956 § 45-24-27 through 45-24-72, as enacted by P.L. 1991, ch. 307, § 1. It requires that zoning ordinances be developed and maintained in accordance with a comprehensive plan prepared pursuant to the Rhode Island Comprehensive Planning and Land Use Regulation Act (CPLURA). G.L. 1956 chapter 22.2 of title 45; Maynard v. Beck, 741 A.2d 866, 868 (R.I.1999) (per curiam). The CPLURA requires all towns and cities to adopt, update, and amend a comprehensive plan, including implementation programs, in conformity with the provisions set forth in the act. Town of East Greenwich v. Narragansett Electric Co., 651 A.2d 725, 727 (R.I.1994); See § 45-22.2-2. A comprehensive plan, according to the CPLURA, is a statement (in text, maps, illustrations, or other media of communication) that is designed to provide a basis for rational decision making regarding the long term physical development of the municipality. Section 45-22.2-6. Each town and city is required to conform its zoning ordinance to the comprehensive plan within eighteen months of plan adoption and approval. Section 45-22.2-5(a)(3). The Pawtucket City Council adopted its comprehensive plan on June 24, 1992, and the state approved the plan on or about November 8, 1995.