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Moderate

Rhode Island Short-Term Rental Regulations

RI

No state STR license. Hotel tax (6%) applies. Newport has permit requirements. Providence varies. Small state with localized rules.

Regulatory Overview
State STR LicenseNot Required
State Preemption LawNo
Permit RequiredLocal Level Only
Owner-Occupied RequiredNo
Last Verified2026-01
Tax Breakdown
7%
State Sales Tax
6%
Lodging / TOT
Est. Total Tax Burden~13%
Total is an estimate. Local taxes, county surcharges, and platform fees vary. Always verify with your local tax authority.
Key Rule Summary
No state STR license. Hotel tax (6%) applies. Newport has permit requirements. Providence varies. Small state with localized rules.
Major City Rules
2 cities tracked
Newport
Moderate
STR permit required, historic district considerations
Providence
Moderate
Business license, zoning compliance required
Housing Market Data — US Census ACS
ACS 5-Year 2022
483,053
Total Housing Units
10.5%
Vacancy Rate
62.7%
Owner-Occupied
37.3%
Renter-Occupied
17,764
Seasonal/Vacation Units
3.7%
Seasonal Unit %
Source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates · Seasonal/vacation units are a proxy for STR-receptive housing stock.
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