Excavation permits and rules in Rhode Island

Anyone digging in Rhode Island has to notify Dig Safe before work starts. Dial 811 to reach it. The notice period under R.I. Gen. Laws 39-1.2-1 to 39-1.2-14: at least seventy-two (72) hours, excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays, but not more than thirty (30) days before commencing the excavation.^{1, 2}

Rhode Island licenses contractors through the Rhode Island Contractors' Registration and Licensing Board. Who needs a license: Registration exempt only for work on one structure or project under $500 that is casual, minor or inconsequential, and not for anyone advertising as a contractor. Contractors register with the board (registration, no exam); a separate underground utility contractor license covers laying or repairing sewer, storm drainage and water lines outside buildings.^{3, 4, 5, 6}

A stormwater permit is needed at 1 acre, or less than 1 acre if part of a larger common plan resulting in more than 1 acre of disturbance. Coverage is under the RIPDES Construction General Permit (2025 CGP).⁷

Footings in Rhode Island go below the frost line, which the state building code sets at 40 inches.⁸