Sump Pump Usage in Rhode Island Determining Permitted Use of the Device

With increased precipitation and associated flooding in Rhode Island, concerns have grown about the potential use of sump pumps by Rhode Island property owners leading to the discharge of water onto municipal roadways and/or neighboring properties. This could lead to hazardous and/or obnoxious conditions.
This presentation dscribes the current laws that govern how property owners in Rhode Island and within its various municipalities are permitted to discharge their sump pumps and what alternatives are available to property owners for managing the effects of flooding associated with major storm events. In addition, this presentation described what feasible and alternative community-based solutions may exist.
The report on which this presentation is based is a product of the Marine Affairs Institute at Roger Williams University School of Law and the Rhode Island Sea Grant Legal Program and is authored by Annebelle Klein, Research Associate. All errors and omissions are the responsibility of the Marine Affairs Institute. This white paper is provided only for informational and educational purposes and is not legal advice.
For more information, see law.rwu.edu/ac...