State Building Code Overview
Rhode Island has statewide building code adoption and enforcement.
Primary Code
RI State Building Code
Code Version
2024 IECC; building code based on 2018 IBC
Adoption Level
Statewide
Statewide Enforcement
Yes
Barndominium permitting is limited statewide; extra approvals or variances may be needed.
Rhode Island has statewide building code adoption and enforcement.
Primary Code
RI State Building Code
Code Version
2024 IECC; building code based on 2018 IBC
Adoption Level
Statewide
Statewide Enforcement
Yes
All municipalities enforce the state code.
Residential
Required
Commercial
Required
Agricultural
Required
Very limited agricultural exemptions due to limited farmland.
Minor structures may be exempt per code.
Coastal wind loads. Hurricane risk. Moderate snow loads.
Wind Load
110–145 mph
high zone
Snow Load
25–40 psf
Seismic
A–B
Category
Flood
FEMA Regulated
Energy Code
IECC with RI amendments
Version
2024 IECC
RI was the first in the region to adopt the 2024 IECC.
License Type
Contractors Registration Board registration
Rhode Island requires contractor registration.
Front
25–40 ft
Side
10–20 ft
Rear
20–30 ft
Strict zoning statewide due to density.
Frost depth 42 inches.
Full permits. Zoning challenges.
Limited ag land. Few exemptions.
Very challenging statewide.
Full permits.
Full code compliance.
HOAs and strict zoning limit steel building construction. Very limited rural land available.
Extensive coastal flood zones. Hurricane storm surge zones.
Verify the information above directly from these official sources. Regulations change — always confirm with your local building department before starting construction.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. Building codes, permit requirements, and zoning regulations change frequently. Always verify current requirements with your local building department, planning office, or a licensed professional before starting construction. Homestead Steel Structures & Design is not a legal authority on building codes or zoning regulations. Last updated February 2026.