Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S2038

Introduced
1/9/26  

Caption

Caps the size of accessory dwelling units to 900 sq.ft. for one bedroom units and 1,000 sq. ft for two 2 bedroom units.

Impact

The bill imposes several restrictions on municipal regulations regarding ADUs, preventing localities from enacting overly burdensome requirements that could stifle their development. For example, municipalities must not charge excessive application fees, require unnecessary infrastructure improvements, or impose additional criteria that exceed state standards. These measures are intended to streamline the process for homeowners wishing to create ADUs and to reduce potential barriers to practical housing solutions.

Summary

S2038 introduces amendments to the zoning ordinances relating to accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in Rhode Island. The bill facilitates the creation of ADUs by allowing one unit per lot under certain conditions, notably on owner-occupied properties or in larger residential lots. It aims to standardize the treatment of ADUs across municipalities by enforcing consistent design standards. This is particularly significant as it seeks to address housing shortages and improve affordability in the state by making it easier to develop smaller living spaces within existing residential areas.

Contention

While proponents argue that S2038 will bolster housing options and affordability, critics express concerns regarding local control. Some local officials believe that state-mandated regulations might override specific community needs and preferences. Furthermore, there are worries that the quality and safety of housing could be compromised due to relaxed standards or practices. This tension between state control and local autonomy is expected to be a central point of debate during the legislative process.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H6184

Permits Tiverton to require two parking space for each studio, one-bedroom, or two-bedroom low- or moderate-income housing units upon the determination that limited or no local public transportation or off-street parking availability near these units.

RI S1101

Permits Tiverton to require two parking space for each studio, one-bedroom, or two-bedroom low- or moderate-income housing units upon the determination that limited or no local public transportation or off-street parking availability near these units.

RI S0505

Permit but not mandate, a municipality to allow certain requirements as exceptions to statewide treatment of ADUs to max of 800 sq. ft., owner, family member and caretaker occupation.

RI S0715

Limits municipal minimum lot sizes for residential use to 2,500 sq ft near transit, 5,000 sq. ft with water/sewer, and 1 acre otherwise, while protecting farmlands, forests, and wetlands, and requiring zoning updates to comply.

RI H5100

Authorizes municipalities to make an emergency declaration under limited circumstances to allow for the construction and use of SAVE Units on a temporary basis which have specialized requirements and exemptions from the state fire and building codes.

RI S0501

Authorizes municipalities to make an emergency declaration under limited circumstances to allow for the construction and use of SAVE Units on a temporary basis which have specialized requirements and exemptions from the state fire and building codes.

RI H6178

Prohibits applications filed in the town of Tiverton, for comprehensive permit projects, for low and moderate income housing, to include accessory dwelling units.

RI S1098

Prohibits applications filed in the town of Tiverton, for comprehensive permit projects, for low and moderate income housing, to include accessory dwelling units.

RI S0504

Requires cities and towns to permit attached single-family dwellings in any residential zoning districts and each such dwelling would be entitled to its own parcel thorough subdivision regardless lot size or base zone standards.

RI H5268

Creates the home-fit dwelling units act to apply to all new construction of covered dwelling units to incorporate design features that provide safe and convenient use of to the greatest extent feasible, regardless of age or physical ability.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.