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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Providence County, RI

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

Short-term rentals (STRs) are generally restricted to owner-occupied dwellings in residential zones (R-1 through R-3); non-owner-occupied STRs are prohibited in these zones. All entire-unit rentals require a municipal Temporary Use Permit and must comply with safety standards, including posting exit diagrams and providing fire extinguishers. Additionally, all properties listed on hosting platforms must register with the Rhode Island Department of Business Regulation.

How to Obtain a Permit

1. Obtain a Temporary Use Permit from the City of Providence Department of Inspection & Standards (required for entire dwelling units; must be renewed annually). 2. Register the property with the Rhode Island Department of Business Regulation via the elicensing.ri.gov portal (required for all properties on hosting platforms). 3. Ensure the unit meets safety requirements, including the installation of fire extinguishers and exit diagrams.

Official Resources

Official Providence County STR regulation source

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in Providence County, RI?
Short-term rentals (STRs) are generally restricted to owner-occupied dwellings in residential zones (R-1 through R-3); non-owner-occupied STRs are prohibited in these zones. All entire-unit rentals require a municipal Temporary Use Permit and must comply with safety standards, including posting exit diagrams and providing fire extinguishers. Additionally, all properties listed on hosting platforms must register with the Rhode Island Department of Business Regulation.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Providence County?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Providence County. 1. Obtain a Temporary Use Permit from the City of Providence Department of Inspection & Standards (required for entire dwelling units; must be renewed annually). 2. Register the property with the Rhode Island Department of Business Regulation via the elicensing.ri.gov portal (required for all properties on hosting platforms). 3. Ensure the unit meets safety requirements, including the installation of fire extinguishers and exit diagrams.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Providence County?
1. Obtain a Temporary Use Permit from the City of Providence Department of Inspection & Standards (required for entire dwelling units; must be renewed annually). 2. Register the property with the Rhode Island Department of Business Regulation via the elicensing.ri.gov portal (required for all properties on hosting platforms). 3. Ensure the unit meets safety requirements, including the installation of fire extinguishers and exit diagrams.

Disclaimer

This information is for general reference only and may not reflect the most current regulations. STR regulations change frequently. Always verify requirements with official local government sources before operating a short-term rental.

Last verified: March 2026 · Suggest a correction