Coastal Property Topics & Terms
Building codes: The State of Rhode Island currently adheres to the latest edition of the International Building Code,
which includes provisions for construction in flood zones. Building to the latest standards is required for both new
construction and when a structure undergoes repairs or renovations that constitute more than 50% of the structure’s
previous market value.
Coastal features: From barriers to bluffs, the shoreline is comprised of an array of naturally occurring elements. The
presence of specific features on a coastal property determines certain setbacks and regulations.
Coastal hazards: A few of the hazards or processes that occur along Rhode Island’s coast include storms and
severe weather, storm-driven erosion, tidal flooding, and accelerated sea-level rise. These hazards may threaten
coastal property or activities in the coastal zone now or in the future.
Coastal Resources Management Council (CRMC): The CRMC is the managing agency for Rhode Island’s
shoreline, and has jurisdiction within 200 feet of any coastal feature. Coastal property owners must obtain permits
from the CRMC for various activities within this zone.
CRMC regulations: CRMC regulations and policy govern activity in the coastal zone based on area classifications
and activities. Coastal features inform construction setbacks and buffers, while an area’s water type determines the
size of buffer zones, whether or not property owners can install shoreline protection, and what activities may occur
within tidal waters.
CRMC water types: All waters along Rhode Island’s coast are classified according to the CRMC. The six water
types are determined by how the area is used, density of use, and presence of conservation considerations.
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) floodplain mapping: As part of the National Flood Insurance
Program (NFIP), FEMA maps all risk zones, including the coastal floodplain. The resulting maps, Flood Insurance
Rate Maps (FIRMs), trigger developmental/building code revisions and may illustrate whether or not a property owner
has to purchase flood insurance for a structure.
FEMA Flood Hazard Zones: Flood zones are areas identified by FIRMs as being prone to flooding during storm
events of given strengths.
Increasing structural resilience: The practice of building or retrofitting properties so as to increase structural
integrity in the face of coastal hazards, including storms and associated winds and flooding (sometimes referred to as
“flood-proofing”). In some instances, resilience cannot be achieved, and other options, including relocation, must be
considered.
Renovating or repairing an existing building: Any addition to an existing structure within CRMC’s jurisdiction or in
a flood zone is required to meet current building standards. If the cost of renovations or repairs to an existing
structure equals or exceed 50% of the structure's market value, the entire building must be updated to meet current
standards, setbacks, and other CRMC regulations.
Septic systems (onsite wastewater treatment systems): If a coastal property is not connected to the municipality’s
sewage system and relies on a septic system, property owners must adhere to certain regulations when constructing,
repairing, or altering their septic systems in the coastal zone. The CRMC and the R.I. Department of Environmental
Management jointly regulate the installation and maintenance of septic systems in the coastal zone.
Shoreline protection structures: Shoreline protection structures are manmade formations such as revetments or
seawalls designed to protect landforms or structures along the coast. The CRMC regulates the installation and
maintenance of shoreline protection structures in Rhode Island.