AN ACT RELATING TO TOWNS AND CITIES -- LOW AND MODERATE INCOME HOUSING -- TIVERTON

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Lou DiPalma and 1 co-sponsor

Tiverton would be excluded from ADU allowances in projects using the state comprehensive permit framework for low- and moderate-income housing.

05/12/2026 Committee recommended measure be held for further study

Overview

SB 2589 (Rhode Island, 2026) proposes a targeted adjustment to the state’s Low and Moderate Income Housing framework, specifically addressing Tiverton. The act would exempt Tiverton from certain comprehensive permit requirements related to low- and moderate-income housing and would prohibit accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in Tiverton developments under this procedure. The measure takes effect upon passage.

Main purpose and intent

To tailor the comprehensive permit process for low- and moderate-income housing in Tiverton.

To limit, for Tiverton, the use of the state’s comprehensive permit mechanism by for-profit developers by prohibiting accessory dwelling units within Tiverton projects approved under this chapter.

To align Tiverton’s approach with a more restrictive framework for ADUs within comprehensive permit projects.

Key provisions and changes

Section 45-53-4 (amended): The comprehensive permit process remains, but Tiverton is singled out with a specific exception:

In Tiverton, applications filed under this chapter may not include accessory dwelling units (ADUs) as part of any project that seeks a comprehensive permit.

Tiverton-specific limitation: The provision creates a Tiverton-only restriction within the broader statute that otherwise governs the approval process for low- and moderate-income housing.

Effective date: The act takes effect on passage.

Explanatory note: The bill’s explanation reiterates the Tiverton exemption from the comprehensive permit framework, specifically naming the ADU prohibition.

Who is affected

Tiverton: The primary locality affected. Developers proposing low- or moderate-income housing in Tiverton would be barred from including ADUs in projects processed under the comprehensive permit regime.

For-profit developers: The bill restricts their ability to use ADUs within Tiverton under the state comprehensive permit framework.

Tiverton residents and the broader housing policy landscape: Indirectly affected through changes to housing project composition and density considerations in Tiverton, and by reducing the use of ADUs in these projects.

Procedural and timeline aspects

The bill introduces a Tiverton-specific restriction to an otherwise existing comprehensive permit procedure.

There is no stated delay or phased timeline; the provision would become effective upon the act’s passage.

The measure operates within the existing regulatory framework, modifying Tiverton’s application scope rather than creating a separate Tiverton permitting process.

Potential impacts and considerations

Housing affordability and density: The prohibition on ADUs in Tiverton comprehensive permit projects may affect the flexibility of developers to create smaller, potentially more affordable units within a single project.

Local control vs. state framework: The bill emphasizes Tiverton’s autonomy within the state housing law by narrowing the scope of the state’s comprehensive permit tool in that town.

Implementation: Local officials and developers in Tiverton would need to adjust project plans to comply with the ADU prohibition if pursuing comprehensive permit routes.