Building permits, zoning and septic rules in Kent County, Rhode Island
41Index Score / 100 #3 of 5 in Rhode Island
Kent County, Rhode Island has no county government, so the city or town containing the parcel issues building permits and administers zoning12. Covered construction needs a local building permit under the statewide building code34. Septic permits for every address in the county, city or town alike, come from the Rhode Island DEM OWTS Program, not from the municipality5.
At a glance
Building permit
Required for covered work; issued by the city or town where the parcel sits, not by the county3
Zoning
Rules vary by municipality and district; the parcel's city or town administers zoning, not Kent County12
Septic
State-run: RI DEM's OWTS Program permits, reviews and inspects septic systems statewide6
Owner-builder
An owner/occupant of a single-family home may be exempt from registration, but still needs a permit, inspection and approval7
Manufactured homes
Must be allowed as a single-family home on any single-family-zoned lot if it meets code and dimensional rules8
Accessory dwelling unit
One ADU per lot allowed by right statewide when statutory conditions are met9
Minor work exemptions
Small accessory structures, low fences and similar minor work can skip a permit under set size limits10
Building, electrical, plumbing and mechanical permits and inspections for the City of Warwick, the largest municipality in Kent County; every other Kent County town has its own separate building department
Statewide onsite wastewater treatment system (septic) permitting, design review and inspection for all of Rhode Island, including every Kent County municipality
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Do you need a building permit in Kent County, Rhode Island?
Yes. The local building official in the city or town containing the parcel issues the permit; Kent County has no county government or county permit office13. Rhode Island requires a written application and permit before construction, enlargement, alteration, removal, demolition, a change of occupancy, or regulated equipment work; ordinary repairs that do not violate the code are exempt3. The statewide code incorporates the 2021 ICC editions with Rhode Island amendments, effective December 1, 2025, plus the 2023 electrical code and 2024 energy code4. Minor residential exemptions include a one-story detached accessory structure of 64 square feet or less and a fence up to 6 feet tall10. A new building cannot be occupied until the local building official issues a certificate of use and occupancy11.
Who issues building permits in Kent County, and how do you reach Warwick's Building Department?
Warwick's Building Department is the listed local example and includes the Zoning Department12. Call 401-738-2007 or email war.build@warwickri.gov for Warwick questions or an appointment, and use 401-738-2007, ext. 1 to schedule a Warwick inspection12. A parcel elsewhere in Kent County goes through its own municipality's building official for building permits and zoning approval, while septic permits stay with Rhode Island DEM135. West Warwick reviews plans, issues permits and inspects construction; permits are applied for and paid online or at a Building Office kiosk, and unpermitted work may draw a $250 fine14. West Warwick also publishes a project-value fee schedule, but it has no effective date, so verify the current charge before filing15. An owner/occupant of a single-family dwelling may be exempt from contractor registration, but still needs a permit, inspection and approval7.
Does Kent County have zoning, and who administers zoning approval?
Kent County has no countywide zoning authority because Rhode Island has no county government; zoning instead varies by municipality and district12. In Warwick, the Zoning Department receives appeals and issues zoning certificates, while the Building Department keeps flood-zone Elevation Certificates16. West Warwick's Building Official enforces that town's zoning ordinance, and variances, special-use permits and exceptions go through its Building and Zoning office before filing with the Town Clerk14. West Warwick's single-family minimum lot areas, setbacks and height limits vary by district171819. Its 30 percent lot-coverage cap applies specifically to a mobile home on an individual lot in a residential mobile home park, not countywide20. Rhode Island allows one ADU per lot by right when a statutory pathway applies, including a residential lot of at least 20,000 square feet or an ADU kept within an existing structure's footprint9. We could not confirm a countywide minimum dwelling size; ask the parcel's municipality for its current zoning map and dimensional table.
Who issues septic permits in Kent County, Rhode Island?
Rhode Island DEM administers septic permitting throughout Kent County5. Where public wastewater service is unavailable or inaccessible, a dwelling producing wastewater must use a DEM-approved OWTS, and the municipality cannot issue the building permit until the required DEM approvals are presented and valid21. Where public wastewater is reasonably accessible and connection permission is available, DEM cannot approve an OWTS application22. For new construction, a DEM-licensed Class II or Class III designer prepares the plans, and DEM must accept or concur with the soil evaluation before application23. DEM inspects key siting and installation stages, while the licensed designer normally witnesses installation2425. USDA data rates 0% of Kent County soils as free of severe limits for a conventional drain field, so evaluate the site early26. Reach the OWTS Program at 401-222-3961 or DEM.OWTS@dem.ri.gov; sewer connections go through the local sewer authority27.
Can you live in an RV or tiny home on your land in Kent County?
Rhode Island recognizes temporary camping and extended-stay accommodations in regulated RV parks and campgrounds, subject to the state act and additional local zoning, building, fire, septic and health rules2829. Those rules do not grant permission to live in an RV on an individual private lot30. We could not confirm a general private-lot RV rule or a distinct tiny-home occupancy rule for Kent County; ask the parcel's municipal building and zoning office how it classifies the proposed unit and which site approvals apply. Any occupied off-grid dwelling still needs a DEM-approved wastewater system where public wastewater is unavailable or inaccessible31. A code-compliant manufactured home used as a single-family residence is allowed on a lot zoned for that use, subject to dimensional requirements or zoning relief8.
Building a home in Kent County: what are the steps, in order?
The office you call depends on the city or town containing the Kent County parcel: 1. Confirm the zoning district, legal use, lot dimensions, setbacks and floodplain review with the municipal zoning office1332. 2. Confirm whether sewer is reasonably accessible; if not, hire the appropriate licensed designer and obtain DEM's OWTS approval before the municipality can issue the building permit2123. 3. File the written permit application and verify the current municipal fee; Warwick applicants can call 401-738-2007 or email war.build@warwickri.gov12. 4. Schedule inspections as work progresses; designated points may require 24 hours' notice, and the official generally must inspect within 48 hours, excluding weekends and holidays33. 5. Obtain the certificate of use and occupancy before moving into a new building11. 6. For a private well, submit the required drinking-water testing documentation before occupancy approval11.
What should you check before buying land in Kent County, Rhode Island?
A new private well must be outside an area already served by public water, comply with state construction and setback rules, and have a Well Completion Report filed within 10 days; some municipalities also require a local permit34. Most floodplain requirements sit in the state building code, but participating communities maintain local floodplain ordinances and may add provisions32. Work affecting freshwater wetlands, buffers or floodplains generally also needs DEM approval35. Dividing land requires a new plat reviewed and approved under the municipality's subdivision regulations before recording36. Qualifying commercial farms may obtain a Rhode Island sales-and-use-tax exemption for farm-structure construction materials, but it is not an exemption from building permits, zoning, septic or floodplain rules37. Kent County's median property tax bill is about $4,903 a year at an effective rate near 1.5 percent, so get the parcel's current municipal assessment before buying3839. A driveway that meets a Rhode Island state highway needs a RIDOT Physical Alteration Permit before access is made; for a driveway onto a local street, we could not confirm a standard, so ask the parcel's municipal building or public works office40.
Watch-outs
We could not confirm a general right to live in an RV or tiny home on a private lot; ask the building and zoning office for the parcel's city or town before buying or moving one onto the land12.
A Kent County property offered through a hosting platform for stays of no more than 30 nights needs Rhode Island registration, and any municipal registration also applies; registration does not itself make the rental a permitted local use41.
West Warwick's fee and dimensional schedules apply only inside West Warwick; use the parcel's own municipality and zoning district for current fees, setbacks, lot size and height limits152.
Written October 9, 2026 from the rules quoted below, each taken from an official source and re-checked by an independent reviewer. This is research, not legal advice: rules change, so confirm with the office before you buy or build.
Kent County highlighted among the Rhode Island counties · colored by Index score
How Kent County scores
Seclusion14100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency63100% ev.
Admin Boringness42100% ev.
Durability87100% ev.
Property Autonomy49100% ev.
Carry Cost35100% ev.
Evidence strength: 100%. This reports direct-source completeness and fallback use; it is separate from the score and is not a confidence interval. How it works →
$449kTypical home
1.5%Property tax
$14,822Land / acre
49.8"Annual rain
3.4% of yrsSevere drought
0.3 / yr (+0.3)Mid-century 100°F days
12.7 daysMid-century dry spell
2.72" (+9.4%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.33×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,921Home insurance / yr
1.6% / yrInsurance growth
1.18%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
667,747People within 30 min
11,146,432People within 2 hr
354,088Radius comparison (15 mi)
1,016.1People / sq mi
1.4%Federal land
95.3%Land at 15% slope or less
0%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
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Cities and towns in Kent County
Inside a city, town or township here, that government usually sets zoning and may issue its own building permits; the county’s rules above cover land outside them.
What the ordinances and state agencies actually say — one answer per question, each quoted from the official source and independently re-checked.
Kent County rules
County-wide zoningAbsent
County-level zoning authority across Kent County, including unincorporated areas.
Rhode Island has no county government; land-use and zoning rules are administered by municipalities and applicable state agencies.
Municipal zoning ordinances may apply within Kent County municipalities.
“Rhode Island has no county government. It is divided into 39 municipalities each having its own form of local government.”
Local zoningVaries (with conditions)
Municipal zoning regulation aggregated across Kent County; the actual rule-maker is each municipality, not Kent County as an administering authority.
Rhode Island law empowers municipalities to plan for conservation and development.
West Warwick administers its own zoning ordinance through its Building Official acting as Zoning Enforcement Officer.
West Warwick states that zoning variances, special use permits, and exceptions must be obtained from its Building and Zoning office and filed with the Town Clerk.
Municipal zoning ordinances may be amended, so the current ordinance for the specific municipality and parcel must be checked.
“Zoning is a power granted by the State of Rhode Island that enables towns to regulate land uses (development density, the size of lots, the height of buildings, etc.) in order to ensure that development does not run contrary to the Comprehensive Plan and promotes the health, safety and general welfare of the public.”
3 more reviewed findings on this topic
Varies (with conditions) — Municipal zoning across Kent County, aggregated at the county level; the actual rule-maker is the applicable municipality and its zoning ordinance.
“Historically, the State had delegated land use authority to its municipalities, most of which already had some type of comprehensive plan. [...] maintaining municipal discretion in land use decision-making; [...] requiring zoning to conform to the comprehensive plans;”
Varies (with conditions) — Aggregate local zoning across Kent County municipalities, including Coventry, East Greenwich, Warwick, West Greenwich, and West Warwick; the county aggregate does not mean Kent County administers the ordinances.
“Historically, the State had delegated land use authority to its municipalities, most of which already had some type of comprehensive plan. However, at that time, there was no formal connection between the SGP, State agency plans, and municipal plans. The new system envisioned by the Act sought to address this by: maintaining municipal discretion in land use decision-making;”
Varies (with conditions) — The aggregate of local zoning in Kent County's municipalities; the actual rule-maker is each city or town, not Kent County as an administering authority.
“That the zoning enabling authority contained in this chapter require each city and town to conform its zoning ordinance and zoning map [...]”
Rhode Island rules that apply here
Building permitRequired
Construction, enlargement, alteration, removal, demolition, occupancy changes, and regulated equipment installation or alteration statewide; one- and two-family residential work is governed by the Rhode Island One and Two-Family Dwelling Code.
Ordinary repairs that do not involve a violation of the building code are exempt.
For one- and two-family dwellings, permits are not required for listed minor work, including one-story detached accessory structures not exceeding 64 square feet, fences not over six feet, retaining walls not over 32 inches unless supporting a surcharge, qualifying water tanks, certain sidewalks and driveways, and similar finish work.
All cast-in-place concrete retaining walls greater than 24 inches require a permit.
Permit exemptions do not authorize work violating the building code or other applicable laws or ordinances.
The current state code framework incorporates the 2021 code editions effective December 1, 2025.
detached accessory structure floor area exemption: <= 64 square feet (one-story detached accessory structures under the one- and two-family dwelling code) · fence height exemption: <= 6 feet · retaining wall height exemption: <= 32 inches (cast-in-place concrete retaining walls greater than 24 inches require a permit; surcharge-supported walls are not exempt) · water tank capacity exemption: <= 5000 gallons (height-to-diameter or width ratio must not exceed 2 to 1)
“It shall be unlawful to construct, enlarge, alter, remove, or demolish a building [...] without first filing an application with the building official in writing”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Required — Construction, enlargement, alteration, removal, demolition, regulated equipment work, and changes of occupancy in Kent County, subject to administration by the applicable local building official.
“It shall be unlawful to construct, enlarge, alter, remove, or demolish a building, or change the occupancy of a building from one use group as defined in this code to another; or to install or alter any equipment for which provision is made or the installation of which is regulated by this code, without first filing an application with the building official in writing and obtaining the required permit therefor; except that ordinary repairs as defined in § 23-27.3-102.0 which do not involve any violation of this code shall be exempt from this provision.”
Owner-builder exemptionConditional
The owner/occupant performing work requiring registered workers at a single-family dwelling in Kent County.
The exemption is from contractor registration requirements, not from the building permit requirement.
The owner/occupant must obtain a permit.
The work must be inspected by the local official.
The owner/occupant must obtain approval of the work before using the completed alteration.
The owner/occupant must perform the work requiring licensure without assistance from compensated persons.
“The owner/occupant of single family dwelling shall be exempt from the registration requirements of subsection (a), but must obtain a permit, be inspected by the local official in accordance with the provisions of the code, and obtain approval of the work prior to use of the completed alteration.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Available (with conditions) — The owner/occupant performing work requiring registration on a single-family dwelling.
“The owner/occupant of single family dwelling shall be exempt from the registration requirements of subsection (a), but must obtain a permit,”
Building code adoptedAdopted
Building-code adoption applicable statewide in Rhode Island, including Kent County.
Effective December 1, 2025.
The incorporated ICC and NFPA codes include Rhode Island amendments.
The referenced National Electrical Code edition is NEC 2023.
The referenced International Energy Conservation Code edition is IECC 2024.
The listed statewide components include IBC-2021, IRC-2021, IPC-2021, IMC-2021, NEC-2023, IPMC-2021, IEBC-2021, IECC-2024, ISPSC-2021, and IFGC-2021.
effective date: 2025-12-01 · building code edition: IBC-2021 (Rhode Island amendments) · one- and two-family dwelling code edition: IRC-2021 (Rhode Island amendments) · electrical code edition: NEC-2023 (Rhode Island amendments) · energy conservation code edition: IECC-2024 (Rhode Island amendments)
“Effective December 1, 2025, the State of Rhode Island has incorporated by reference the 2021 editions of the below listed ICC & NFPA codes along with RI amendments. (Note that the referenced edition of the National Electrical Code [NEC] is the 2023 edition and the referenced edition of the International Energy Conservation Code [IECC] is the 2024 edition.)”
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
Adopted — Construction, alteration, movement, enlargement, replacement, repair, equipment, use, occupancy, location, maintenance, removal, and demolition of buildings and structures subject to the Rhode Island State Building Code, including Kent County.
“Effective December 1, 2025, the State of Rhode Island has incorporated by reference the 2021 editions of the below listed ICC & NFPA codes along with RI amendments. (Note that the referenced edition of the National Electrical Code [NEC] is the 2023 edition and the referenced edition of the International Energy Conservation Code [IECC] is the 2024 edition.)”
Adopted — Statewide construction, alteration, movement, enlargement, replacement, repair, equipment, use and occupancy, location, maintenance, removal and demolition of every building or structure or connected appurtenance, subject to the code's stated exceptions.
“The Building Code Standards Committee hereby adopts and incorporates as the Rhode Island Building Code the provisions of the International Building Code (IBC), 2021 edition, as published by the International Code Council, Inc. (ICC) not including any further editions or amendments thereof and only to the extent that the provisions therein are not inconsistent with R.I. Gen. Laws Chapter 23-27.3 and any provisions reserved, deleted, or amended in this Regulation.”
InspectionsRequired
Work performed under a building permit statewide.
The building official conducts inspections during and upon completion of permitted work.
Specific inspection points may require the contractor or builder to give 24 hours' notice.
The building official must make the inspection within 48 hours after notification, excluding weekends and holidays.
If the building official fails to inspect within the statutory timeframe, the contractor or builder may hire a qualified third-party inspector or the state inspector and the building official must accept the reports.
At least 24 hours' notice by email is required before hiring a third-party or state inspector.
inspection notice: 24 hours · building official inspection response time: 48 hours (weekend days and holidays excluded) · third-party inspector notice: 24 hours (notice by email before hiring)
“The building official shall make all required inspections [...] during and upon completion of the work for which the building official has issued a permit”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Required — Permitted building work in Kent County, with inspections conducted by the applicable local building official.
“The building official shall make all required inspections as specified in the provisions of this code and the building official shall conduct the inspections from time to time during and upon completion of the work for which the building official has issued a permit; and the building official shall maintain a record of all the examinations and inspections and of all violations of this code.”
Certificate of occupancyLimited
Existing buildings statewide when the owner requests a certificate of use and occupancy.
The owner must make a written request.
There must be no pending violations of law or orders of the building official or fire official.
Inspection and investigation must establish that the alleged use previously existed.
Private-well properties require drinking-water testing documentation; a city or town may require additional testing.
Noncompliant private-well results require corrective action before certificate issuance.
Corrective action is required within 30 days, subject to the stated appeal and extension provisions.
A qualified professional may support an appeal for a private-well exemption, which expires after five years and is renewable only by appeal.
private-well corrective action period: 30 days (subject to stated appeal and extension provisions) · private-well exemption duration: 5 years (renewable by appeal only)
“Upon written request from the owner of an existing building, the building official shall issue a certificate of use and occupancy”
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
Required — New buildings or structures erected in Kent County.
“No building or structure hereafter erected shall be used or occupied in whole or in part until a certificate of use and occupancy shall have been issued by the building official.”
Required — New buildings and structures erected statewide.
“No building or structure hereafter erected shall be used or occupied [...] until a certificate of use and occupancy shall have been issued by the building official.”
Zoning districtsPartial
Municipal zoning ordinances and zoning maps in Rhode Island when an ordinance and map have been published.
Printed copies of the zoning ordinance and map(s) of a city or town must be available to the general public and revised to include all amendments.
A reasonable charge may be made for copies to reflect printing and distribution costs.
Upon publication of a zoning ordinance and map, and amendments, the city or town clerk must send a copy to the state law library.
The statute does not establish from its text that every Rhode Island city or town has adopted a zoning ordinance or published zoning districts.
“Printed copies of the zoning ordinance and map(s) of a city or town shall be available to the general public and revised to include all amendments. A reasonable charge may be made for copies to reflect printing and distribution costs. Upon publication of a zoning ordinance and map, and any amendments to them, the city or town clerk shall send a copy, without charge, to the state law library.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Partial — Statewide publication of generalized zoning information for Rhode Island municipalities.
“For the first time, this study has gathered zoning information for all 39 municipalities in Rhode Island and consolidated these data into a statewide composite zoning map. Like the statewide Current Land Use layer, zoning data were collected from municipal planning departments and reclassified into a general statewide zoning categorization. Data were collected from June to July 2025 and reflect the most current information available at that time.”
Lot coverageDistrict specific (with conditions)
Lot-coverage standards established within municipal zoning districts under Rhode Island's statewide zoning-enabling framework.
The operative lot-coverage percentage or other dimensional limit is established by the applicable municipal zoning ordinance and district.
The cited state statute provides the framework; it does not supply a single statewide numeric lot-coverage limit.
lot coverage: district-specific
“Regulating within each district and designating requirements for:”
Building heightDistrict specific (with conditions)
Building-height standards established within municipal zoning districts under Rhode Island's statewide zoning-enabling framework.
The operative height, story, or dimensional limit is established by the applicable municipal zoning ordinance and district.
The cited state statute provides the framework; it does not supply a single statewide numeric zoning-height limit.
building height: district-specific
“The height, number of stories, and size of buildings;”
Manufactured homesAllowed (with conditions)
Manufactured homes used as single-family homes on lots zoned for single-family use in Rhode Island municipalities.
The municipality may allow the manufactured home; the statute does not require every municipality to do so.
The home must comply with R.I. Gen. Laws § 23-27.3-109.1.3.
The lot must be zoned for single-family use.
The home must comply with all dimensional requirements of a single-family home in the district or obtain relief under the zoning chapter.
“Notwithstanding any other provisions of this chapter, all towns and cities may allow manufactured homes that comply with § 23-27.3-109.1.3 as a type of single-family home on any lot zoned for single-family use. Such home shall comply with all dimensional requirements of a single-family home in the district or seek relief for the same under the provisions of this chapter.”
3 more reviewed findings on this topic
Allowed (with conditions) — Manufactured homes used as single-family homes on lots zoned for single-family use in Kent County.
“Notwithstanding any other provisions of this chapter, all towns and cities shall allow manufactured homes, as defined in § 45-24-31, that comply with § 23-27.3-109.1.3 as a type of single-family home on any lot zoned for single-family use. Such home shall comply with all dimensional requirements of a single-family home in the district or seek relief for the same under the provisions of this chapter.”
Limited — Manufactured homes used as buildings or dwellings subject to Rhode Island building-code requirements.
“Manufactured homes are constructed in accordance with [...] Part 3280 Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards. Refer to Appendix E [...] for specific provisions regarding permitting”
Limited — Temporary placement and occupancy of mobile or manufactured homes on the same land when a residential building or structure has been rendered uninhabitable by casualty.
“Any time a building or other structure used for residential purposes, or a portion of a building containing residential units, is rendered uninhabitable by virtue of a casualty such as fire or flood, the owner of the property is allowed to park, temporarily, mobile and manufactured home, or homes, as the need may be, elsewhere upon the land, for use and occupancy of the former occupants for a period of up to twelve (12) months, or until the building or structure is rehabilitated and otherwise made fit for occupancy.”
Accessory dwellingsAllowed (with conditions)
One accessory dwelling unit per lot in Rhode Island residential zoning districts, subject to the statewide conditions in §§ 45-24-31, 45-24-37, and 45-24-73.
One ADU per lot is allowed by right only on an owner-occupied property as a reasonable accommodation for family members with disabilities; on a residential lot of at least 20,000 square feet; or within the existing footprint of the primary structure or an existing attached or detached accessory structure without expanding that footprint.
A municipality may establish a maximum ADU size, but must allow at least 900 square feet or 60 percent of the principal dwelling floor area, whichever is less, for a studio or one-bedroom ADU, and at least 1,200 square feet or 60 percent of the principal dwelling floor area, whichever is less, for a two-bedroom ADU, subject to applicable dimensional requirements.
Municipalities may not restrict tenants based on familial relationship or age except as necessary for a federal affordability subsidy; charge ADU application or permitting fees exceeding those for a new single-family dwelling; require separate water or sewer lines or expanded septic capacity unless required by an applicable state agency, building code, or necessary capacity upgrade; discriminate against protected populations; impose dimensional or development standards exceeding those for an accessory structure in the same district; require additional lot area, frontage, or width solely for an ADU; require zoning relief to address existing dimensional nonconformity for an ADU within an existing legal nonconforming footprint; require more than one off-street parking space per ADU bedroom; limit ADUs to lots with preexisting dwellings or prohibit ADUs in new dwelling or subdivision applications; prohibit up to two bedrooms for a compliant ADU; require exclusive low- or moderate-income occupancy except for inclusionary zoning or comprehensive permit applications; or revoke permitted status or require disassembly after transfer of title or occupancy.
A municipality must allow ADUs in applications for new primary dwelling units or subdivisions; ADUs in larger development proposals cannot count toward density limits, and a unified development review process may be used.
Municipalities may exempt ADUs from all or part of utility assessment or tie-in fees.
Conflicting private restrictions are void as against public policy, subject to the statutory exception for private governing-body covenants that allow ADUs.
Locally adopted limits or moratoria on residential-unit development in residentially zoned land may not restrict ADU development.
ADUs shall not be offered or rented for tourist or transient use or through a hosting platform.
A compliant ADU is a permitted use in all residential zoning districts and is permitted through an administrative building permit process only.
The statutory history states amendments effective June 30, 2022, and June 25, 2024.
ADUs per lot: 1 unit · minimum qualifying residential lot area: >= 20000 sq. ft. (One by-right pathway; other statutory pathways apply.) · minimum studio or one-bedroom ADU size: 900 or 60% of principal dwelling floor area, whichever is less sq. ft. / percentage (Subject to applicable dimensional requirements.) · minimum two-bedroom ADU size: 1200 or 60% of principal dwelling floor area, whichever is less sq. ft. / percentage (Subject to applicable dimensional requirements.) · maximum off-street parking requirement: <= 1 space per ADU bedroom
“Pursuant to § 45-24-37, one accessory dwelling unit (ADU) per lot shall be allowed by right under the following circumstances:”
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
Allowed — One accessory dwelling unit per lot in Kent County where the statutory by-right conditions are met.
“Pursuant to § 45-24-37, one accessory dwelling unit (ADU) per lot shall be allowed by right under the following circumstances:”
Allowed (with conditions) — One accessory dwelling unit per lot in Rhode Island residential zoning districts, when one of the statutory by-right circumstances is met.
“Pursuant to § 45-24-37, one accessory dwelling unit (ADU) per lot shall be allowed by right under the following circumstances: (1) On an owner-occupied property as a reasonable accommodation for family members with disabilities; or (2) On a lot with a total lot area of twenty thousand square feet (20,000 sq. ft.) or more for which the primary use is residential; or (3) Where the proposed ADU is located within the existing footprint of the primary structure or existing accessory attached or detached structure and does not expand the footprint of the structure.”
Who permits septicState (with conditions)
Rhode Island statewide onsite wastewater treatment systems (OWTS), including septic systems for new homes.
The system must be designed by a DEM-licensed designer and installed by a DEM-licensed installer.
New systems must be designed by a Class II or Class III designer.
Class I designers may design only repairs to existing systems, including complete replacement of a cesspool or failing septic system.
New sites require a soil evaluation by a licensed Class IV Soil Evaluator.
The source identifies the authority as DEM, the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management, Office of Water Resources–Onsite Program.
“In Rhode Island, septic systems (onsite wastewater treatment systems or OWTS) must be designed by a DEM-licensed designer and installed by a DEM-licensed installer. There are four “classes” of OWTS licenses issued by DEM. New systems must be designed by a Class II or III designer; Class I designers may only design repairs to existing systems, but this can include the complete replacement of a cesspool or failing septic system. Information on design authority of Class II and III designers is available in the OWTS Rules in Rule 9, or in the Fact Sheet “OWTS Designer License Classes Described.” New sites require a soil evaluation conducted by a licensed (Class IV) Soil Evaluator.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
State — Septic and onsite wastewater treatment system permitting in Kent County and statewide Rhode Island
“The DEM Onsite Wastewater Treatment System (OWTS) Program administers the States’ septic system permitting program to ensure the protection of public health and the natural environment while focusing on customer service.”
Septic permitRequired
A new structure in Rhode Island from which wastewater will be disposed of by an OWTS, a structure newly requiring OWTS disposal, an increase in OWTS wastewater flow exceeding 25 percent of original design flow when the specified design rules would produce a larger leachfield, or addition of more than one bedroom.
All OWTS applications for new building construction must conform to the OWTS Rules.
Nonconforming applications may be approved only through the variance procedures in § 6.51.
Plans and specifications must be prepared by a Class II or Class III Licensed Designer.
The Director must first accept a soil evaluation or concur with the soil evaluation before the application is submitted.
A municipality may not issue a building permit for activities requiring OWTS approval unless all required written approvals by the Director have been presented and remain valid.
wastewater-flow increase threshold: > 25 percent of original design flow (The application is required when the applicable design flows and loading rates would result in a leachfield larger than previously approved.) · bedroom-addition threshold: > 1 bedroom (Adding more than one bedroom triggers the new-building-construction application.)
“OWTS Application for New Building Construction”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Required — A dwelling or other building with plumbing fixtures producing wastewater where no public wastewater system is available or accessible
“Any dwelling or other building having plumbing fixtures from which wastewater is produced, in a location where no public wastewater system is available or accessible, shall be provided with an OWTS of type and design approved by the Director.”
Septic inspectionRequired
Installation of an OWTS in Rhode Island, with the licensed designer responsible for witnessing and inspecting the installation of the system the designer designed.
The person witnessing and inspecting may not be the Licensed Installer who installs the OWTS, except for an OWTS repair.
Any assisting individual must be an employee of the same business entity as the Licensed Designer and work under that designer’s direct supervision.
The designer must be available to resolve noncompliance, design conflicts, changed conditions, or matters requested by the Department.
The designer must inform the owner in writing of special conditions, operating requirements, or periodic maintenance needs.
“witnessing and inspecting the installation”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Required — OWTS installation and system siting in Kent County and statewide Rhode Island
“System installation: Field inspections are conducted by DEM staff during the key stages of system siting and installation.”
Off-grid sanitationLimited
Use of qualifying alternative toilets, including composting toilets, as part of an approved OWTS in Rhode Island.
The toilet must meet or exceed NSF Standard 41-equivalent performance standards.
It must be installed, operated, and maintained according to manufacturer specifications, have positive ventilation, and convert contents to an inert, stable, or harmless condition.
The owner must maintain a vendor-certified maintenance contract at all times for at least two years.
The approved OWTS construction permit application, permit conditions, and initial maintenance contract must be recorded in municipal land evidence records and provided to DEM before a certificate of conformance is issued.
A System Inspector report is required two years after certificate issuance and every two years thereafter.
A separate graywater OWTS is required, designed for 60 percent of normal daily design flow; if conventional toilet wastewater is directed to it, it must be designed for 100 percent.
Solids may be buried onsite unless prohibited by § 6.43 and may not be applied to food crops.
Excess liquids must go to the graywater septic tank or separate holding tank; liquids from the separate holding tank must be removed by a DEM-permitted septage transporter.
The holding tank must have capacity of 250 gallons or one year's projected flow, whichever is greater, be watertight and meet septic-tank standards, and have an alarm at 80 percent capacity.
The alternative technology must be on the Department's approved Alternative or Experimental Technology List.
Removal or replacement requires an OWTS Application for New Building Construction.
In Salt Pond and Narrow River Critical Resource Areas, composting toilets may be approved as nitrogen-reducing technology only if residuals are properly disposed of beyond the area's boundary, all blackwater is treated by the composting toilet, and all liquid residuals go to a compliant holding tank.
minimum maintenance-contract term: >= 2 years · graywater design flow: 60 percent of normal daily design flow (If conventional toilet wastewater is directed to the leachfield, design flow must be 100 percent.) · holding-tank capacity: >= 250 gallons (Use one year's projected flow instead if greater.) · holding-tank alarm threshold: 80 percent of capacity
“Alternative toilets include composting toilets”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Allowed (with conditions) — Onsite wastewater sanitation for dwellings and other buildings in areas without an available or accessible public wastewater system
“Any dwelling or other building having plumbing fixtures from which wastewater is produced, in a location where no public wastewater system is available or accessible, shall be provided with an OWTS of type and design approved by the Director.”
Well permitLimited
Construction of new private wells statewide in Rhode Island.
New wells may be installed only in areas not already served by a public water system.
New wells must comply with the State Plumbing Code and Contractors’ Board well-construction regulations and setback requirements.
A contractor must file a Well Completion Report with RIDOH within 10 days of installation, even if the well is not connected.
Some local building and zoning officials may require a permit; the applicable municipal code must be checked before work begins.
The official sources establish a statewide completion-report requirement but do not establish that a state-issued well construction permit is universally required.
well completion report deadline: 10 days after installation (Applies even if the well has not yet been connected to anything.)
“Some local building and zoning officials may require permits for new wells.”
Mandatory utility hookupConditional
Connection of premises to a public wastewater system where the system is reasonably accessible and permission to connect can be obtained from the authority having jurisdiction.
An OWTS application cannot be approved for premises where a public wastewater system is reasonably accessible and permission to enter can be obtained.
The Director shall require connection within a specified period if the OWTS is failing, the public wastewater system is reasonably accessible, and permission to connect can be obtained.
The rule does not establish a universal statewide water-service connection requirement.
“connect the structure to a public wastewater system”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Conditional — Connection of premises served by an OWTS to a public wastewater system
“The Director shall require the owner or occupant to connect the structure to a public wastewater system within a specified period of time if the following occur: 1.The OWTS is failing; 2.Public wastewater system is reasonably accessible as determined by the Director; and 3.Permission to connect to the public wastewater system can be obtained from the authority having jurisdiction over it.”
Agricultural exemptionConditional
Rhode Island sales-and-use-tax exemption for farm structure construction materials used in connection with commercial farming and agricultural production; applicable to qualifying agricultural activity in Kent County.
The exemption concerns sales and use tax, not a blanket exemption from zoning, subdivision, septic, floodplain, or building-permit requirements.
Commercial farming includes qualifying production or boarding and has Level I and Level II annual gross-sales thresholds of $2,500 and $10,000 for exemptions issued or renewed after July 1, 2002.
Initial issuance requires proof of the requisite prior-year annual gross sales; renewal requires proof for each of the prior two years.
Certificates issued or renewed after July 1, 2002 are valid for four years after issuance.
An application must be made to the tax administrator on the prescribed form.
The rule specifically includes farm structure construction materials used in connection with commercial farming and agricultural production.
Level I annual gross sales threshold: >= 2500 USD (For exemptions issued or renewed after July 1, 2002) · Level II annual gross sales threshold: >= 10000 USD (For exemptions issued or renewed after July 1, 2002) · certificate validity: 4 years (Certificates issued or renewed after July 1, 2002)
“There is an exemption from sales and use tax as provided by R.I. Gen. Laws §§ 44-18-30(32) and 44-18-30(44) for: [...] farm structure construction materials used in connection with commercial farming and agricultural production. B. Application for this exemption shall be made to the tax administrator on a Form prescribed by the tax administrator.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Available (with conditions) — Farm equipment and farm-structure construction material purchased for qualifying agricultural operations in Rhode Island, including Kent County.
“APPLICATION FOR CERTIFICATE OF EXEMPTION FOR FARM EQUIPMENT/FARM STRUCTURE CONSTRUCTION MATERIAL FROM RHODE ISLAND SALES & USE TAX PLEASE CHECK ONE: RENEWAL_____ (ATTACH PRECEDING 2 YEARS FEDERAL RETURNS INCLUDING SCHEDULE F ALONG WITH COPY OF MOST RECENT CERTIFICATE) NEW_____ (ATTACH PRECEDING 1 YEAR FEDERAL RETURN ALONG WITH SCHEDULE F)”
Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)
Subdivision and land-development review in every Rhode Island municipality, including municipalities within Kent County.
Every municipality must adopt compliant local land-development and subdivision review regulations.
The statute applies to all cases of subdivision of land, including re-subdivision.
Subdivision activity requires a new plat reviewed and approved by the planning board or its agents before recording.
Local regulations and municipal planning boards administer the local review process.
applicability: all cases of subdivision of land, including re-subdivision · plat requirement: new plat reviewed and approved before recording
“This Act establishes land development and subdivision enabling authority and requires each city and town to develop land development and subdivision regulations in accordance with the community comprehensive plan, capital improvement plan, and zoning ordinance, and to ensure the consistency of all local development regulations. It also sets certain standard procedures for review and approval of land development and subdivision requests.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivision and re-subdivision of land throughout Rhode Island, administered through municipal land-development and subdivision review regulations required by state law.
“Every municipality in the state shall adopt land development and subdivision review regulations”
Driveway accessRequired
Access by driveway to a Rhode Island State Highway.
A Physical Alteration Permit must be obtained before access is made.
Applicants must review and agree to the RIDOT Standard Specifications for Road and Bridge Construction.
The applicant should become familiar with applicable regulations and standards to avoid a resubmission fee.
The completed application must include the PAPA Submittal Checklist, all necessary copies of plans and computations, and the permit fee required for the type of access.
Applications should be submitted to the Maintenance Division Headquarters.
All applications except single-family residential applications require a construction cost estimate for specified work; a cost estimate may be required for single-family residential applications at the Department's discretion.
“No access by driveway to a State Highway shall be made without first obtaining a Permit.”
Building in a floodplainLimited
Development in floodplain areas in Rhode Island, including municipalities within Kent County.
Most floodplain requirements are incorporated into the Rhode Island State Building Code.
A community may impose additional floodplain provisions and regulations.
Communities participating in the NFIP must adopt, enforce, and maintain a local floodplain ordinance.
The local floodplain administrator is typically a municipal official.
“While most floodplain requirements have been incorporated into the Rhode Island State Building Code, some additional provisions and regulations may be required by a community.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Required — Projects or activities within a state-defined jurisdictional area that may alter freshwater wetlands, buffers, floodplains, areas subject to flooding, or areas subject to storm flowage.
“Projects or activities within a jurisdictional area that may alter freshwater wetlands, buffers, floodplains, areas subject to flooding or areas subject to storm flowage are subject to regulation and are required to obtain approval from the Director in accordance with these Rules. Certain limited activities are exempt in accordance with § 3.6 of this Part.”
Short-term rentalsLimited
Short-term rental properties in Kent County and elsewhere in Rhode Island that are offered for no more than 30 nights at a time through a third-party hosting platform.
Rhode Island requires statewide registration for covered short-term rentals.
A municipality may impose its own registration requirement; if so, both state and municipal registration are required.
The state registration requirement does not determine whether a short-term rental is allowed or disallowed in a municipality.
Covered listings must display the state registration number and expiration date.
The regulation is active effective 2024-12-24.
maximum rental duration: <= 30 nights at a time · state registration fee: 25 USD · registration term: 1 year
“The term of the Registration shall be one (1) year from the date on which it was issued.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Limited — Short-term rental properties listed on third-party hosting platforms conducting business in Rhode Island.
“In accordance with R.I. Gen. Laws § 42-63.1-14, all short-term rental properties listed for rent on the website of any third-party hosting platform that conducts business in Rhode Island must be registered with the Department.”
Permit feesPublished (with conditions)
Municipal building permit fees in Rhode Island.
Municipalities assess fees using schedules computed under the statewide permit formula.
The fee schedule for each municipality must be posted on the Building Code Commission website and updated when changed.
The schedules originally became effective July 1, 2018, or July 1, 2020 for municipalities granted an extended transition period.
initial effective date: 2018-07-01 (Municipalities granted an extended transition period used 2020-07-01.)
“The fee schedule for each municipality shall be posted on the commission’s website and the website shall be updated whenever a change to a fee schedule is made so that all fee schedules posted on the website are current.”
Permit processPublished (with conditions)
State buildings and buildings located on State-owned or State-leased land.
The Building Code Commission issues these permits.
Permit applications must be submitted through the designated State permit portal.
Required documentation may include construction drawings, site plans, system specifications, and licensed contractor information.
The page states that licensed contractors, authorized state-agency representatives, and other qualified professionals may apply.
“Permit applications must be submitted through the designated State permit portal. Required documentation may include: Construction drawings; Site plans; System specifications; Licensed contractor information”
Campground & park staysAllowed (with conditions)
Extended-stay, seasonal, and full-time occupancy of recreational vehicles in Rhode Island recreational vehicle parks and campgrounds.
The rule applies to recreational vehicle parks and campgrounds as defined in § 32-7-7, not to every private parcel.
An extended-stay RV park or campground may provide extended-stay, full-time, and seasonal accommodations rather than short-term accommodations.
Full-time use is recognized for individuals using an RV as their only or primary residence.
A recreational vehicle park or campground must be established and maintained in conformity with the Recreational Vehicle Parks and Campgrounds Act.
State definitions apply where differences occur between state and local definitions; local codes and other state laws also apply.
“Extended stay: A recreational vehicle park or campground that provides extended stay, full-time, and seasonal accommodations, rather than short-term accommodations.”
3 more reviewed findings on this topic
Limited — Temporary living sites for recreational vehicles and camping units in recreational vehicle parks and campgrounds located in Kent County.
“The construction of recreational vehicle parks and campgrounds that offer temporary living sites for use by recreational vehicles and camping units shall comply with NFPA 1194, Standard for Recreational Vehicle Parks and Campgrounds.”
Limited — Temporary camping in recreational vehicle parks and campgrounds located in Kent County.
“This chapter shall apply to all recreational vehicle parks and campgrounds, as defined in § 32-7-7. No person or organization or government entity shall establish and maintain a recreational vehicle park or campground within the state of Rhode Island, except in conformity with this code. Facilities in existing recreational vehicle parks and campgrounds may continue in use, providing those facilities do not constitute a recognized health or safety hazard.”
Allowed (with conditions) — Temporary camping in recreational vehicle parks and campgrounds.
“No person or organization or government entity shall establish and maintain a recreational vehicle park or campground [...] except in conformity with this code.”
county zoning authorityNone
Rhode Island counties and unincorporated land statewide; the state zoning enabling statute grants zoning authority to city or town councils, not county governments.
Zoning authority under the cited enabling statute is exercised by city or town councils in municipalities.
This claim addresses county authority only and does not determine whether a municipality has adopted a zoning ordinance.
“Although there are five counties in Rhode Island, there is no county governmental structure in the State.”
county building authorityNone
Rhode Island counties’ authority to require building permits or adopt and administer building codes for residential construction in unincorporated areas.
Rhode Island establishes a statewide building code governing construction and permits.
Construction, alteration, removal, demolition, regulated equipment installation, and occupancy changes generally require an application to and permit from the building official.
Ordinary repairs defined in R.I. Gen. Laws § 23-27.3-102.0 that do not violate the code are exempt from the permit requirement.
The statutes assign administration to the state building commissioner and local authorities/communities; they do not grant building-code administration or permitting authority to counties.
If a municipality lacks a local building official or inspectors, the state building code commissioner and staff assume enforcement authority in that municipality.
“The land area of the state is divided into 39 cities and towns. Rhode Island is divided into 5 counties, but this is now just an administrative device used only by the court system. There is no unincorporated land in Rhode Island.”
Inside cities and towns in Kent County
Municipal rules found while researching the county. They apply inside that city or town, not to unincorporated land.
Zoning districtsPartial
Zoning administration and zoning districts in the Town of West Warwick.
The Building Official acts as Zoning Enforcement Officer.
Applications for zoning variances, special-use permits, and exceptions are obtained from the Building Office and filed with the Town Clerk.
The town warns that zoning ordinances are amended from time to time and the current book should be checked.
The page does not reproduce the complete district schedule or map.
“The zoning ordinances are amended from time to time”
Minimum lot sizeDistrict specific (with conditions)
Residential lots in West Warwick zoning districts R-10, R-8, R-7.5, R-6, B, CI, and BP.
The table distinguishes single-family, two-family, and multi-family uses.
The source uses X in some district cells; this record does not interpret those cells beyond reproducing the table.
single-family minimum lot area by district: R-10 10,000 sq ft; R-8 8,000 sq ft; R-7.5 7,500 sq ft; R-6 6,000 sq ft; B 10,000 sq ft; CI 10,000 sq ft; BP X text · two-family minimum lot area by district: R-10 15,000 sq ft; R-8 12,000 sq ft; R-7.5 10,000 sq ft; R-6 8,000 sq ft; B 12,000 sq ft; CI 12,000 sq ft; BP X text · multi-family minimum lot area by district: R-10 10,000 sq ft; R-8 10,000 sq ft; R-7.5 10,000 sq ft; R-6 10,000 sq ft; B 10,000 sq ft; CI 10,000 sq ft; BP X text
“R-10 R-8 R-7.5 R-6 B CI BP MINIMAL LOT AREA IN SG FT SINGLE FAMILY 10,000 8,000 7,500 6,000 10,000 10,000 X TWO FAMILY 15,000 12,000 10,000 8,000 12,000 12,000 X MULTI FAMILY 10,000 10,000 10,000 10,000 10,000 10,000 X”
SetbacksDistrict specific (with conditions)
Principal buildings, ADUs, and accessory uses in West Warwick zoning districts listed in the town's dimensional table.
The table separately lists principal building and ADU yards and accessory-use yards.
District order is R-10, R-8, R-7.5, R-6, B, CI, BP.
principal building and ADU front/interior-side/corner-side/rear yards: R-10 30/10/30/30 ft; R-8 25/10/25/25 ft; R-7.5 20/7/20/20 ft; R-6 20/6/20/20 ft; B 5/15/15/15 ft; CI 5/20/20/20 ft; BP 25/20/20/20 ft text · accessory-use front/interior-side/corner-side/rear yards: R-10 30/10/10/5 ft; R-8 25/10/10/5 ft; R-7.5 20/7/5/5 ft; R-6 20/6/5/5 ft; B 5/10/20/10 ft; CI 20/20/20/20 ft; BP 20/20/20/20 ft text
An individual mobile home lot in a residential mobile home park in West Warwick, Rhode Island.
The limit applies to the mobile home on an individual mobile home lot.
The maximum is measured against the gross area of the lot.
The ordinance separately states that mobile homes are permitted in an RMH park and requires development-plan review and zoning-board procedures for RMH parks.
maximum mobile-home lot coverage: <= 30 percent of gross lot area
“5.11.6.1 Lot coverage. Maximum lot coverage by a mobile home on an individual mobile home lot shall not exceed 30 percent of the gross area of the lot.”
Building heightDistrict specific (with conditions)
Principal and accessory buildings in West Warwick zoning districts R-10, R-8, R-7.5, R-6, B, CI, and BP.
District order is R-10, R-8, R-7.5, R-6, B, CI, BP.
The table also lists maximum stories for the districts; X is reproduced without interpretation.
maximum principal building height by district: R-10 30 ft; R-8 25 ft; R-7.5 35 ft; R-6 35 ft; B 50 ft; CI 30 ft; BP 50 ft ft · maximum accessory building height: 20 ft in R-10, R-8, R-7.5, R-6, B, CI, and BP ft · maximum stories by district: R-10 2; R-8 2; R-7.5 3; R-6 3; B X; CI X; BP X stories
“MAXIMA: STORIES 2 2 3 3 X X X HEIGHT (PRINCIPAL) 30 25 35 35 50 30 50 HEIGHT(ACCESSORY) 20 20 20 20 20 20 20”
Permit feesPublished (with conditions)
Building permit fees for projects in the Town of West Warwick, which is within Kent County.
The schedule is based on project value.
The official PDF is titled Town of West Warwick Schedule of Building Permit Fees and does not state an effective date.
fee for project value from $1 to $1,000: 75 USD · fee for project value from $50,001 to $51,000: 936 USD
“Town of West Warwick SCHEDULE OF BUILDING PERMIT FEES Project Value Project Value FROM TO FEE FROM TO FEE $1 $1,000 $75 $50,001 $51,000 $936”
Permit processPublished (with conditions)
Building permit process administered by the Town of West Warwick within Kent County, Rhode Island.
The Building Department provides information on code requirements, permits, costs, and procedures for obtaining permits and inspections.
The department reviews plans, issues permits, and inspects construction activity.
The department enforces the Town of West Warwick Code of Ordinances, Rhode Island codes, and national and international codes.
Working without a permit may result in a $250 fine.
Zoning variances, special use permits, and exceptions must be obtained from the Building and Zoning office and filed with the Town Clerk.
fine for working without a permit: 250 USD
“All permits are now done on-line. You can apply and pay for a permit at home or at a kiosk at the Building Office.”
Set by your town or city, not the county
In Rhode Island, zoning is adopted by each town or city, so Kent County has no county-wide answer on these. Find your town or city in the list of places on this page, or call its clerk or zoning administrator.
Minimum dwelling size
Tiny homes
Each answer was extracted from an official source and independently re-checked against that source by a second reviewer. That is an evidence check, not legal advice. Rules change; confirm with the authority before you buy or build.
Living off-grid in Kent County, Rhode Island
Is Kent County a good place to live off-grid or homestead?
Kent County scores 41/100 on the Bolthole Index, a marginal county profile. Its strengths: a durable current and mid-century hazard profile and strong self-sufficiency basics: 49.8″/yr rainfall with little drought. Watch-outs: about 667,747 people within a 30-minute drive and higher long-term carry cost.
Do you need a building permit in Kent County, Rhode Island?
Kent County generally requires a residential building permit, and it has no county-wide zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (RI DEM) OWTS Program. Owner-builders may act as their own contractor to build their home. These answers are quoted from official sources and independently re-checked. Rules change and cities within the county differ — always confirm with the county before you buy or build.
How much does land cost in Kent County, Rhode Island?
Land in Kent County runs about $14,822 per acre, based on the latest county data.
What is the water situation in Kent County?
Kent County gets about 49.8" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 3.4% of years.
How remote is Kent County?
A representative private-land location has about 667,747 people within a 30-minute drive and 11,146,432 within two hours. The road-network catchments count population across county lines and clusters of smaller cities; straight-line radius values remain available as a comparison.
