250-RICR-100-00-1
250-RICR-100-00-1. Park and Management Area Rules and Regulations (version Amendment, 10/30/2016 to 11/05/2017)
Park and Management Area Rules and Regulations
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STATE OF RHODE ISLAND AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS
Department of Environmental Management
Division of Law Enforcement,
Division of Fish and Wildlife,
Division of Forest Environment, and
Division of Parks and Recreation
Park and Management Area
Rules and Regulations
October 30, 2016
AUTHORITY: These regulations are adopted pursuant to Chapters 42.17.1,
42.17.6, 20-15, 32-2 and 32-3, and RIGL §§20-1-2, 20-1-4, and 20-1-8, and 42-35
“Administrative Procedures Act” of the General Laws of Rhode Island, 1956 as
amended.
Park and Management Area Rules and Regulations
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STATE OF RHODE ISLAND AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS
Department of Environmental Management
Division of Law Enforcement, Division of Fish and Wildlife,
Division of Forest Environment, and Division of Parks and Recreation
PARK AND MANAGEMENT AREA RULES AND REGULATIONS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PURPOSE
……4
AUTHORITY
……4
ADMINISTRATIVE FINDINGS
……4
APPLICATION
……4
SEVERABILITY
……4
SUPERSEDED RULES AND REGULATIONS
……4
Section 1 – Definitions
……5
Section 2 – Animals, Including Horses and Dogs
……8
Section 3 – Annoying or Questionable Activities
…..10
Section 4 – Archaeology
…..11
Section 5 – Bicycles, Operator Propelled Vehicles
…..11
Section 6 – Boating Regulations
…..12
Section 7 – Camping for All Camping Areas
…..15
Section 8 – Camping for Specific Areas
…..16
Section 9 – Dunes
…..17
Section 10 – Fees
…..17
Section 11 – Firearms and Archery Equipment
…..18
Section 12 – Fires
…..18
Fireworks
…..18
Section 13 – Food, Beverage, Vending
…..19
Section 14 – Groups, Meetings, Distribution of Printed Matter
…..19
Section 15 – Hours of Operation
…..20
Section 16 – Hunting Regulations – Management Areas
…..21
Section 17 – Miscellaneous Regulations
…..24
Section 18 – Mooring
…..25
Section 19 – Motorcycle use in Arcadia Management Area
…..25
Section 20 – Motor Vehicles
…..27
Section 21 – Picnicking and Playing Field Permits
…..28
Section 22 – Refunds
…..29
Section 23 – Special Events
…..29
Section 24 – State Park Policies
…..31
Section 25 – Swimming, Bathing, Floating
…..31
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Section 26 – Target Range Regulations
…..32
Section 27 – Trash and Litter
…..38
Section 28 – Trees, Shrubs, Buildings
…..38
Section 29 – Area Specific Regulations
…..38
Section 30 – Penalties for Violation
…..41
Appendix 1 – Permits and Waiver and Release of Liability
…..43
Appendix 2 – State Parks and Beaches
…..44
Appendix 3 – Wildlife Management Areas
…..45
Appendix 4 – Management Areas Access
…..46
Section 31 – Effective Date
…..48
Park and Management Area Rules and Regulations
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Park and Management Area
Rules and Regulations
PURPOSE
The purpose of these Rules and Regulations is for the control, custody, governance, and
use of state Management Areas, State Parks, and other areas operated and maintained by
the Divisions of Fish and Wildlife, Parks and Recreation, and Forest Environment within
the Department of Environmental Management.
AUTHORITY
These Rules and Regulations are promulgated pursuant to RIGL §§20-1-2, 20-1-4, and
20-1-8, and RIGL Chapters 42-17.1, 42-17.6, 20-18, 20-15, 32-2 and 32-3 and
accordance with Chapter 42-35, Administrative Procedures Act of the Rhode Island
General Laws of 1956, as amended.
ADMINISTRATIVE FINDINGS
At the present time there are several sets of Rules and Regulations governing public use
of the Department’s Parks and Management Areas. Many of the existing Regulations are
duplicative, vague, and out of date. Promulgation of these re-codified Regulations will
eliminate confusion and make the regulations contemporary, benefiting both users of the
Management Areas and Parks and the enforcement of these Rules and Regulations by
DEM personnel.
APPLICATION
The terms and provisions of these Rules and Regulations shall be liberally construed to
permit the Department to effectuate the purposes of state law, goals, and policies.
SEVERABILITY
If any provision of these Rules and Regulations or application thereof to any person or
circumstances, is held invalid by a court of competent jurisdiction, the validity of the
remainder of the Rules and Regulations shall not be affected thereby.
SUPERSEDED RULES AND REGULATIONS
On the effective date of these Rules and Regulations, all previous Rules and Regulations,
and any policies regarding the administration and enforcement of Parks and management
Area Rules and Regulations shall be superseded. However, any enforcement action taken
by, or application submitted to, the Department prior to the effective date of these Rules
and Regulations shall be governed by the Rules and Regulations in effect at the time the
enforcement action was taken, or application filed.
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Section 1 – Definitions
1.1
Authorized Representative of the Department of Environmental Management – is
an employee or agent of the Department of Environmental Management who has
been delegated authority to enforce the provision of this Chapter.
1.2
Bay Island – the islands of Prudence, Patience, Hope, Dutch, East & West Island
(off Sakonnet Point) Little & Big Gould, and Hog.
1.3
Blank Gun – any firearm designed to discharge only blank cartridges and is
incapable of propelling any type of projectile.
1.4
Bow – long bow, re-curve bow, compound bow or crossbow for hunting deer.
1.5
Camping – the erecting of a tent or shelter of natural or synthetic material,
preparing a sleeping bag or other bedding material for use, parking of a motor
vehicle, motor home or trailer, or mooring of a vessel for the apparent purpose of
overnight occupancy.
1.6
Designated Areas - any part of a public reservation specially set aside for one or
more purposes and identified as such either by the posting of a sign or signs or so
posted at the public reservation headquarters.
1.7
Disabled Person – an individual who has been issued by the Registry of Motor
Vehicles, and whose vehicle displays a current certificate issued pursuant to
R.I.G.L. 31-28-7 entitling that individual to parking privileges afforded to a
disabled individual.
1.8
Domestic Animals – animals, which through extremely long association with
humans, have been bred to a degree which has resulted in genetic changes
affecting the temperament, color, conformation, or other attributes of the species
to an extent that makes them unique and distinguishable from wild individuals of
their species and as listed in R.I.G.L. §20-18-4, Chapter 18, Section 4, entitled,
Importation of Wild Animal Regulations of the Department of Environmental
Management.
1.9
Firearm – any machine gun, pistol, air rifle, air pistol, and “blank gun”, “BB gun”,
so-called, or other instrument from which steel or metal projectiles are propelled,
or which may readily be converted to expel a projectile, except re-curve,
compound, crossbow or longbows and except such instruments propelling such
projectiles that are designed or normally used for a primary purpose other than as
a weapon. The frame or receiver of any such weapon shall be construed as a
firearm under the provisions of this section.
1.10
Float Tube – any device manufactured and sold for use as a fishing float tube.
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1.11
Group - a collection of at least ten (10) persons, which may be military, public or
private, may or may not be chartered or incorporated, profit or non-profit and
having a formal name, with or without officers and/or dues.
1.12
Management Area – public lands that are owned by the state of Rhode Island
under the jurisdiction of the Department’s Division of Fish & Wildlife or Forest
Environment or in conjunction with each other or subject to the enforcement
authority of the Department.
1.13
Management Councils – internal Department coordinating group, which includes
representatives from the divisions of Fish & Wildlife, Parks & Recreation,
Planning and Development and Forest Environment. The councils are responsible
for issuing use permits, land use issues, improvements, maintenance and projects
in management areas.
1.14
Motor Vehicle - every vehicle that is self-propelled including, but not limited to,
every vehicle that is propelled by an internal combustion engine or electric power,
but not operated upon rails, or upon water.
1.15
Migratory Waterfowl – per R.I.G.L. §§20-3-34, all waterfowl species in the
family anatidae, including wild ducks, geese, brant, and swans.
1.16
Native Wildlife – animals occurring naturally, either presently or historically,
within the boundaries of the state.
1.17
Off-Road Recreational Vehicles-any motorized vehicles which were or modified
for manufactured use on terrain other than roads and streets and are not registered
with the Registry of Motor Vehicles or its equivalent agency in a state other than
Rhode Island for operation on roads or streets.
1.18
Official Written Permission - written permission obtained from an Authorized
Representative of the Department.
1.19
Open Air Fire - any fire in the outdoors or in a structure not completely enclosed
by walls and a roof, including charcoal grills and gas stoves.
1.20
Park – any property under the jurisdiction of the Department’s Division of Parks
and Recreation.
1.21
Permitted organized fishing activity, i.e. tournaments, shall mean those permitted
through the RIDEM, Division of Fish and Wildlife with all rules and stipulations
included therein. (See Section 1.16 Freshwater and Anadromous Fishing
Regulations.)
1.22
Person - an individual, firm, corporation, society, association, partnership, or
private or public body.
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1.23
Public Reservation - any property under the care, control or custody of the
Department of Environmental Management.
1.24
Rock Climbing – activities associated with a person moving upon, along, or
across a non-horizontal rock surface, including but not limited to scrambling,
bouldering, free climbing, assisted climbing, and technical climbing.
1.25
Snowmobiles – a motor vehicle designed to travel over ice or snow, and
supported in whole or in part by skis, belts, or cleats.
1.26
Special Event – any activity in which seventy-five (75) or more participants not to
exceed one hundred fifty (150) participants.
1.27
Special Use Permit - an authorized written permission for groups between 10-75
people or research studies to use the management areas.
1.28
Sponsor – the person(s) who applies for authorization to conduct, or conducts a
special event as that term is defined in Part 1.27 of these rules and regulations.
1.29
Trash – garbage, rubbish, waste papers, bottles or cans, debris, litter, oil, solvents
liquid waste, or other discarded materials.
1.30
Vehicle - every device in, upon, or by which a person or property is or may be
transported or drawn on land, except snowmobiles including devices moved by
human power or used exclusively upon stationary rails or track.
1.31
Wildlife Food Patches – any parcel of land that is physically planted or
manipulated to provide food and/or cover for wildlife.
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Section 2 – Animals, Including Horses and Dogs
2.1
No Person shall bring into a state park property or picnic area any animal unless
under control at all times on a leash of not more than six feet (6’) in length. The
handler of all animals is responsible for cleaning up and proper disposal of all
animal wastes.
2.2
In management areas, persons may walk leashed dogs and domestic animals. The
leash shall not exceed 25 feet in length with animal under control at all times.
2.3
All dogs must be wearing a collar with valid license tag. (See Section 16 for
additional dog and dog training regulations in management areas.)
2.4
No person shall leave an animal unattended in a vehicle with the exception of
dogs that are being used for hunting or dog trials between September 1st and
March 31st.
2.5
No person shall bring onto any state bathing beach, East Beach/Ninigret
Conservation Area, or Burlingame picnic area any animal from April 1st through
September 30th.
2.6
Requirements for using the Reynolds Horseman’s Area, Arcadia:
2.6.1 Horses shall be allowed only on bridle trails and in designated areas. All
users will clean up manure at campsites and dispose of it in bins provided.
2.6.2 Ring is to be used for riding or attended exercising, not to be used for turn
out or hitching.
2.6.3 No camping permitted around ring.
2.6.4 Fencing must be self-supporting with no nails or fasteners allowed in trees
2.6.5 Horses are not to be tied to trees.
2.6.6 Cemetery is not to be used for horse turnout.
2.6.7 Only one site can be used at a time.
2.6.8 Camping allowed in designated areas only. (See Section 12, Fires)
2.7
Horseback riding is prohibited in the Great Swamp Management Area during the
established small game season and the established shot gun deer season.
2.8
Horses shall be allowed only in designated areas and bridle trails, except by
official written permission.
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2.9
During the established small game and shotgun deer hunting seasons, horses are
prohibited from the Arcadia Dog Training Area with the exception of Thornley
and Midway Trails and other DEM designated trails.
2.10
The exercising, training, or running of dogs from March 15 through August 15 is
prohibited except by official written permission, or in designated areas. (See also
Section 16.12, Dog Training and field trials.)
2.11
Cross-Country skiers are not allowed to bring dogs on designated cross-country
ski trails.
2.12
The release of any animal within any State Park, Beach, or other public
reservation is prohibited. (See Section 16, Hunting Regulations and Section 7,
Camping, for additional animal regulations.)
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Section 3 – Annoying or Questionable Activities
3.1
Loitering is prohibited in or around restrooms.
3.2
Activities that interfere with designated activities are prohibited. It is unlawful
for any person to engage in disorderly conduct as described below:
person commits disorderly conduct if he or she intentionally, knowingly, or
recklessly engages in fighting or threatening or in violent or tumultuous behavior;
or in a public place or near a private residence that he or she has no right to
occupy, disturbs another person by making loud and unreasonable noise which
under the circumstances would disturb a person of average sensibilities; or
3.2.1 Directs at another person in a public place offensive words which are
likely to provoke a violent reaction on the part of the average person so
addressed; or
3.2.2 Alone or with others, obstructs a highway, street, sidewalk, railway,
waterway, building entrance, elevator, aisle, stairway, or hallway to which
the public or a substantial group of the public has access or any other place
ordinarily used for the passage of persons vehicles, or conveyances; or
3.2.3 Engages in conduct which obstructs or interferes physically with a lawful
meeting, procession, or gathering; or
3.2.4 Public nudity is prohibited
3.3
Operation of sirens or any noise audible to a person of reasonable sensitive
hearing at a distance of 200 feet from its source and other noise making devices or
broadcast loud or raucous sounds or noises by use of an electrical amplifying
system or sound track, is prohibited except by official written permission. Engine
powered model airplanes, model boats, rockets and model cars shall be operated
only upon receipt of official written permission from individual Park Facility
Manager.
3.4
The possession or use of a paint ball gun or any other mechanism, which propels a
projectile is prohibited, except as otherwise provided in these regulations.
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Section 4 – Archaeology
4.1
No one shall excavate, disturb, or conduct field investigations on any site or
underwater historic property, nor shall anyone disturb or remove any specimens
from any property under the care, control or custody of the Department of
Environmental Management without first obtaining the written approval of the
Director and a permit from the State Historical Preservation Commission.
4.2
All archaeological sites, underwater historic property, and archaeological
specimens, as defined in the Antiquities Act of Rhode Island, R.I.G.L., Ch. 42-
45.1, are the property of the State of Rhode Island.
4.3
Metal detectors and other location devices are restricted to designated areas
during specified time periods.
Section 5 – Bicycles, Operator Propelled Vehicles
5.1
No person shall operate or ride a bicycle, scooter, skate board or other operator
propelled vehicle or device in any unit or portion thereof, of the Division of Parks
and Recreation after the Regional Manager has made a finding that conditions are
unsafe for the operation of such vehicles and has issued an order prohibiting such
activity.
5.2
Ice-skating is permitted only in designated areas and at designated times.
5.3
Cross-country skiing is permitted, except where specifically prohibited.
5.4
Downhill skiing and sledding is permitted only in designated areas.
5.5
Windsurfers must launch and land only from designated areas.
5.6
During the established small game and shotgun deer hunting seasons, the use of
mountain bikes is prohibited from the Arcadia Dog Training Area with the
exception of Thornley and Midway Trails and other DEM designated trails. (See
16.7, fluorescent orange requirement.)
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Section 6 – Boating Regulations
6.1
Boating is prohibited within the impoundment created by the Great Swamp dike,
except with official written permission. Official written permission is not required
from July 15
th through October 15
th. All motors are prohibited at all times.
6.2
Boats are prohibited on the following ponds:
Round Top Pond, Burrillville
Little Round Top Pond, Burrillville
Peck Pond, Burrillville
Gristmill Pond, Glocester
A.L. Mowry Pond, Smithfield
Deep Pond, Arcadia, (off of Blitzkrieg Trail) Exeter
Frosty Hollow Pond, Exeter
Carolina Trout Pond, Richmond
Lower Roaring Brook Pond
6.3
The launching, hauling, and operation of boats with motors of any kind are
prohibited from state-owned and/or operated ramps on the following ponds:
Upper Roaring Brook Ponds, Exeter
Asa Pond, South Kingstown
Alton Pond, Hopkinton
6.4
The launching, hauling, and operation of boats with motors of any kind, except
electric trolling motors, is prohibited from state-owned and/or operated ramps on
the following bodies of water:
Spring Lake, Burrillville
Union Pond, Burrillville
Clarkville Pond, Glocester
Lake Washington, Glocester
Shippee Mill Pond, Foster
Pawtuxet River (Hope), Scituate
Carbuncle Pond, Coventry
Silver Spring Lake, North Kingstown
Barber’s Pond, South Kingstown
Blue Pond, Hopkinton
Simmons Mill Pond, Little Compton
Browning Mill Pond, Richmond
6.5
The use of motors in excess of ten (10) horsepower on boats launched, hauled, or
operated from state-owned and/or operated ramps is prohibited on the following
bodies of water:
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Wilson Reservoir, Burrillville
Keach Pond, Glocester
Smith and Sayles Reservoir (Sand Dam), Glocester
Bowdish Reservoir, Glocester
Woonasquatucket Reservoir (Stump Pond), Smithfield
Indian Lake, South Kingstown
Tucker Pond, South Kingstown
Asheville Pond, Hopkinton
Locustville Pond, Hopkinton
Chapman’s Pond, Westerly
6.6
No person shall use any motorboat with a motor in excess of ten (10) horsepower
from state-owned and/or operated ramps on Stafford Pond, Tiverton and Wilson
Reservoir, Burrillville, with the exception that the use of motors in excess of ten
(10) horsepower on boats launched, hauled, or operated from state-owned and/or
operated ramps on Stafford Pond, Tiverton, and Wilson Reservoir, Burrillville is
permitted for organized fishing activities possessing a valid permit from RIDEM
– Fish and Wildlife. As described in Section 1.16, Freshwater and Anadromous
Fishing Regulations.
6.7
The use of motors in excess of ten (10) horsepower on boats launched, hauled, or
operated from the state-owned ramp on Wakefield Pond in Burrillville is
prohibited at all times. The use of any motor on a boat from this state-owned
ramp, except electric trolling motors, is prohibited from June 20
th to September
20
th of any year, inclusive.
6.8
No person shall launch any motorboat in excess of ten (10) horsepower from
state-owned and/or operated ramps on Pascoag Reservoir at the state-owned
launching ramp on Schoolhouse Road, Glocester with the exception that
permitted organized fishing activities, i.e., tournaments shall be allowed to use
motors in excess of ten (10) horsepower on the waters of Pascoag Reservoir at the
state-owned launching ramp on Schoolhouse Road, Glocester, between the
Saturday before Memorial Day and Labor Day of each year, inclusive.
6.9
The operation of boats with motors of any kind, except electric trolling motors,
are prohibited on the waters of Olney Pond in Lincoln woods State Park on
Saturdays, Sundays and holidays between the Saturday before Memorial Day and
Labor Day of each year, inclusive.
6.10
The operation of boats with motors of any kind except electric trolling motors,
owned by persons other than the State of Rhode Island with motors in excess of
ten (10) horsepower are prohibited upon Olney Pond except with official written
permission from the Department of Environmental Management.
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6.11
The use of motors in excess of ten (10) horsepower on boats launched, hauled, or
operated on the waters of Breakheart Pond in Exeter and John L. Curran State
Park is prohibited.
6.12
Only vehicles launching or landing a boat will be permitted to park in designated
boat trailer areas.
6.13
The mooring of boats, the parking of vehicles or engaging in any other activity on
land or water so as to obstruct the use of a boat-launching ramp by others is
prohibited.
6.14
Boats shall be launched only at designated areas.
6.15
Boats shall be tied up at state boat ramps for no longer than 30 minutes.
6.16
Gated access to the boat ramp located within the George Washington
Management Area Campground (Bowdish Reservoir) is limited daily between
7:30 AM and 10:00 PM from Memorial Day to October 31st. Persons using the
reservoir or boat ramp prior to 10:00 PM for authorized uses may exit the area
unrestricted by gate access times.
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Section 7 – Camping for All Camping Areas
(See Section 8 for Specific Areas)
7.1
The washing of clothes, cooking utensils and actions relating to one’s personal
hygiene shall be limited to a designated campsite or to facilities provided for that
purpose.
7.2
Camping is allowed only in designated areas with official written permission from
individual park facility.
7.3
The person, to whom a camping permit is granted, shall be eighteen (18) years of
age or older, shall be an occupant of the campsite, shall state the first and last
names of members of the party, and shall be responsible for his or her party’s
compliance with the rules and regulations of the Department of Environmental
Management and all other applicable laws. Only those members listed shall use
the campsites. Only one family (immediate family) is allowed per campsite. Non-
family groups shall be limited to six (6) persons per campsite. Any person or
persons voided on a camping permit are not allowed to reenter any camping area
for the duration of the camping season.
7.4
All campers shall check in with the caretaker at the beginning of the camping
period and shall surrender their camping permit to the caretaker at the end of the
camping period, where applicable.
7.5
No pets are allowed in camping areas, unless with written permission, or as may
be allowed in accordance with the provisions of current State Law.
7.6
All visitors shall be out of the campsites by 10:00 PM each night. Campers shall
be quiet between the hours of 10:00 PM and 7:00 AM.
7.7
All campground permit holders must be eighteen (18) years of age or older. No
person shall occupy a campground for more than a continuous two (2) week
period, with a seven-day minimum break prior to any re-occupancy. Permit
renewals are limited to three within the two-week maximum period and must be
obtained prior to 8:30 AM on the date of permit expiration. Charlestown
Breachway, Ninigret Conservation Area are excepted from this rule.
7.8
Each campsite must be occupied on the first night of the permit and must be
occupied at least four (4) nights during each week of the camping period.
Noncompliance with the above is grounds for immediate revocation of the permit.
7.9
Public nudity is prohibited. No person shall disrobe other than in tents, campers or
other properly designated structures.
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Section 8 – Camping for Specific Areas
8.1
Camping for Specific Management Areas
8.1.1 Reservations for backpack areas and shelters will be accepted prior to stay.
Payment for shelter reservations must be received within fourteen (14)
working days of the date reservation is made and before the date of use.
All permits must be picked up in person from Arcadia Forestry
Headquarters.
8.1.2 Camping permits run from 3:00 PM on date of permit to 2:00 PM at end
of camping period, except for the George Washington camp ground where
camping permits run from 2:00 PM on the date of issue to 11:00 AM at
the end of the camping period.
8.1.3 No person may occupy a backpack area or shelter for more than a
continuous three (3) day period with a seven (7) day minimum break prior
to any re-occupancy.
8.1.4 No person may occupy Escoheag Horsemen’s Area for more than a
continuous four (4) day period with a one (1)day minimum break prior to
any re-occupancy, unless with official written permission from Arcadia
Forestry Headquarters. Use of this area is limited to campers with horses.
8.1.5 No person may occupy canoe campsites for more than one (1) night, with
a minimum break of seven (7) days prior to any re-occupancy, unless with
official written permission from Arcadia Forestry Headquarters.
8.1.6 In the Arcadia and George Washington Campgrounds, no more than two
(2) cars shall be parked at each campsite. Vehicles are prohibited in
backpack areas, unless with official written permission from respective
Forestry Headquarters.
8.1.7 Visitors are prohibited from backpack areas and shelters, unless with
official written permission from respective Forestry Headquarters.
8.1.8 Campsites must be occupied each night of the camping period in backpack
and shelter areas and Escoheag Horsemen’s Area.
8.1.9 No more than two (2) tents per site shall be allowed in Arcadia designated
camping areas, unless with official written permission from respective
Forestry Headquarters.
8.2
Camping for specific Parks properties
8.2.1 No more than two motor vehicles shall be parked at each campsite.
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8.2.2 Camping permits shall be issued at the parks on a "first-come, first-
served" basis or by contacting our current campground reservation system
provider. Campers shall be ready to set up camp on date of issuance.
Permits shall not be issued by phone at the campground.
8.2.3 Camping permits shall run from 1:00 PM on the date of permit to 11:00
AM at the end of the camping period as indicated on the permit.
8.2.4 Reservations shall be accepted for state campgrounds through the
authorized campground reservation system provider.
Section 9 – Dunes
9.1
Walking or crossing over the dunes is permitted only in designated areas.
Section 10 – Fees
10.1
“User Fees at State Beaches, Parks, and Recreational Areas” as submitted to the
Secretary of State May 11, 2012, and amended, shall remain in effect and are
incorporated herein by reference.
10.2
For persons with disabilities. – No fee shall be charged to any person with a
disability in accordance with the provisions of current State Law, RIGL §§ 32-1-
17. For purpose of this section fees shall include all fees for parking, admittance,
or other user-fees for playing golf. The term fees shall not include licensing fees;
camping fees, picnic table fees or specialized facility use fees, including but not
limited to, fees for the use of equestrian areas, performing arts centers, game
fields, and mule shed.
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Section 11 – Firearms and Archery Equipment
11.1
Possession of a firearm or bow and arrow is prohibited in the state parks unless
otherwise authorized in these Regulations, see sections 11.1, 16.13 or with a
special use permit issued by the director or designee. In addition to above, blank
guns are permitted for the purpose of dog training in designated areas from
January 1
st to September 30
th.
11.2
Target shooting is prohibited except in designated areas by and in accordance
with official written permission from Fish and Wildlife Field Headquarters.
11.3
Possession of a loaded firearm, or firearm with magazine from which all shells or
cartridges have not been removed, in or on any vehicle or conveyance while in or
upon any part of a public reservation is prohibited.
11.4
No person shall hunt or trap or carry firearms within a public reservation unless in
possession of a valid hunting or trapping license and other official written
permission as required. (See Section 16, Hunting Regulations and current
Abstract of Wildlife Laws.)
11.5
Hunting is prohibited within areas so designated by appropriate signage.
11.6
Hunting is prohibited except in designated areas.
11.7
No hunting is permitted within five hundred (500) feet of camping areas, picnic
areas, ball fields, or occupied dwellings or structures, with the exception of
archery hunting for deer with a safety zone of 200 feet.
Section 12 – Fires
12.1
No person shall kindle an open fire, including charcoal fires, except in designated
areas or with official written permission. From March 15th through May 15th, no
open fires are allowed between 10:00 AM and 5:00 PM without burning permit
issued by local fire department.
Fireworks
12.2
The possession or use of all classes of fireworks in any state park or management
area is prohibited except in designated areas with official written permission.
Permission may be given at the Director’s discretion only as a part of a formal
license agreement between the State of Rhode Island and the entity requesting
permission. If granted, permission shall apply only to areas and times designated
by the Director at his/her discretion and specified in the license. The Director may
impose additional restrictions which he or she deems necessary.
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Section 13 – Food, Beverage, Vending
13.1
No person shall possess, drink, sell or offer for sale any alcoholic beverages
except as follows:
Permission may be requested from the Director of the Department of
Environmental Management or his or her authorized representative to consume,
serve, sell or offer for sale alcoholic beverages at events held at Fort Adams State
Park, and at the Annual Oktoberfest Celebration held at World War II State Park.
Requests shall be submitted in writing to the Director, or his/her authorized
representative sixty (60) days in advance of the proposed date for the event.
Permission may be given at the Director’s discretion only as a part of a formal
license agreement between the State of Rhode Island and the entity requesting
permission. If granted, permission shall apply only to areas and times designated
by the Director at his/her discretion and specified in the license. The Director may
impose additional restrictions which he or she deems necessary.
13.2
No person shall offer for sale any goods or services without official written
permission from the Director of the Department of Environmental Management or
his/her authorized representative.
Section 14 – Groups, Meetings, Distribution of Printed Matter
14.1
Persons may distribute or exhibit printed or written material, and/or hold public
meetings only in accordance with an official written permit which shall regulate
only the time, place and manner of such exhibit, distribution or meeting. Holders
of a Special Use Permit (the “Permittees”) may offer leaflets or other documents
to any person at the Management Area or Park and display such materials on tents
or motor vehicles owned by the permittees. However, the permittees are
prohibited from posting or otherwise attaching such materials to trees, as well as
structures or motor vehicles located on the management area or park other than
described above.
14.2
Organized groups utilizing public reservations under the jurisdiction of the
Division of Parks and Recreation, scientific collectors and groups of ten (10) or
more in other public reservations, must submit prior written request to and have
official written permission for a Special Use Permit from the Director or his/her
authorized representative. (See Section 23 for Large Event Permits for groups
between 75 –150 people.)
14.3
Any group or organization bringing youths under the age of eighteen (18) into any
State Park, Beach, Recreation, or Management Area must provide adequate adult
supervision for these youths and their activities.
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Section 15 – Hours of Operation
15.1
All Management areas are closed from one-half (1/2) hour after sunset to one-half
(1/2) hour before sunrise, except for fishing, hunting, launching and/or mooring of
boats, snowmobiling on established trails in Arcadia and George Washington-Pulaski
Section (see Section 20), or as provided by a written permit issued by the Director or
his authorized representative, or as otherwise provided under regulations promulgated
in Section 32-2-4. No person or vehicle shall be allowed within the limits of a state
park or beach area between the hours of sunset and sunrise the following day except
by official written permission or unless an area is designated otherwise by written
regulation.
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Section 16 – Hunting Regulations – Management Areas
16.1
The possession of a valid Rhode Island hunting, or combination hunting and
fishing license, shall serve as a permit to hunt State Management Areas, and
Tidal Lands pursuant to Titles 20 and 18, and Sections §§20-18-2 and §§20-18-3
of the General Laws.
16.2
Permit as stated in 16.1 shall be valid only from the first day of dove season in
September through the last day of February, except when check stations are in
operation for upland game at the Great Swamp, Carolina, Durfee Hill, and
Arcadia; for turkey hunting; when special permits are required for deer hunting;
or for waterfowl hunting on state lands. (See current abstract for check station
dates). Bow hunters and muzzleloading hunters hunting deer on state management
areas do not need to check in or out.
16.3
The carrying of firearms on state management areas at any time is prohibited
except as provided in Management Area Regulations. (See Section 11, Firearms)
In management areas and designated undeveloped parks, the carrying of firearms
and bows and arrows at any time, except during the open season for game birds
and mammals, and while on shooting ranges, is prohibited. In addition to above,
blank guns are permitted for the purpose of dog training in designated areas from
January 1 to September 30.
16.4
Individuals must check in, and out, of state management hunter check stations
each day they are open for upland season. Check station dates will be listed in the
current Hunting and Trapping Season Abstract.
16.5
Dog training and all hunting, except for bow hunting for deer, and waterfowl
hunting, as provided, is prohibited on state land during the five (5) day period
prior to small game season, unless otherwise provided. (See Section 8)
16.6
From the period April 1
st through August 15
th, annually, the following are
prohibited except by special permit: trespassing, disturbing, or molesting of any
species of nesting birds on Hope Island in the West Passage; East Island and West
Island off Sakonnet Point or Gould Island in the East Passage. All cats, dogs, and
other domestic animals are prohibited at all times upon these Islands, except that
hunting dogs may be used during that period set aside by the Department for
hunting of game birds and mammals on Hope Island only.
16.6.1 No person shall engage in any activity that interferes or interrupts
lawful hunting on a management area.
16.7
Fluorescent Orange Requirement: Fluorescent orange safety clothing is required
during the hunting season statewide for all hunters. To meet this requirement,
safety clothing must be solid daylight fluorescent orange. Fluorescent camouflage
does not meet this requirement. The hunter orange must be worn above the waist
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and be visible in all directions. Examples that meet the orange requirements are a
hat that covers 200 square inches or combination of hat and vest covering 500
square inches. The following orange requirements apply:
16.7.1 Two hundred (200) square inches by small game hunters during the Small
game season.
16.7.2 Two hundred (200) square inches by fall turkey hunters while traveling.
16.7.3 Two hundred (200) square inches by muzzleloaders during muzzleloading
season.
16.7.4 Two hundred (200) square inches by archers when traveling to/from
stands during muzzleloading deer season.
16.7.5 Five hundred (500) square inches by all hunters and other users (including
archers) during shotgun deer season.
16.7.6 Those hunters using Pop-up blinds during the firearms deer season must
display 200 square inches of fluorescent orange visible on the outside of
the blind from all directions. Hunters must also wear orange in
accordance with the rules for the specific season while in the blind.
16.7.7 Exempt from fluorescent orange requirements are:
-
Waterfowl hunters hunting from a boat or blind, over water or field,
when done in conjunction with decoys.
-
Archery deer hunters (except during muzzleloader and shotgun deer
season).
-
Hunters crow hunting over decoys.
-
First segment dove hunters.
-
Not required in areas limited to Archery only by regulation.
16.7.8 All other users of State Management areas and designated undeveloped
state parks, including but not limited to: hikers, bikers and horseback
riders, are required to wear two hundred (200) square inches of solid
daylight fluorescent orange from the second Saturday in September to the
last day of February, and the third Saturday in April to the last day in May
annually.
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16.8
A hunting license is required when training dogs on wild game on state
management areas, except when participating in state-sanctioned field trials.
16.9
Complete dressing of game birds and mammals on state property is prohibited.
Field dressing (removal of entrails only) is permitted. Head, skin, feathers, wings,
tails, etc., shall remain attached to the carcass.
16.10 Dogs on State Management Areas allowed only under the following rules:
No dogs are allowed to be trained, run, or exercised or be permitted to run at large
on state management areas from March 15
th to August 15
th, inclusive, without
written permission of the Stateland Management Council, except as otherwise
provided in these regulations.
16.11 Dog Training Areas -- Dog training areas shall be allowed on designated areas
only, between January 1
st and September 30
th. During this period, dogs may run
freely provided they are under the command of the trainer by voice, training
collar, or check cord.
16.11.1Areas designated for training dogs are: the Black Farm Management Area;
the Nicholas Farm Management Area north of the Trestle Trail; and the
Arcadia Midway Trail Area confined to the developed field complex east
of Brook Trail, south of Austin Farm Road and west of the established
field edges comprising the Midway fields area. Field trial areas are as
depicted on maps drawn by the Division of Fish and Wildlife.
16.11.2 Training hours shall be sunrise to sunset.
16.11.3 All persons using areas for training shall possess a hunting license.
16.11.4 All dogs using areas shall be licensed and have proof of rabies
vaccinations.
16.11.5 Training with live birds (pheasants/quail) is permitted provided the bird is
released unharmed and all necessary permits are obtained.
16.11.6 Shooting of live birds for training purposes is prohibited.
16.11.7 Sanctioned field trial events may be held at the following locations by
requesting a special use permit application from the Stateland
Management Councils: Arcadia, Carolina, Durfee Hill Marsh, and
Burlingame (Durfee) Pond, and Nicholas Farm.
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16.12 JOHN L. CURRAN STATE PARK/MANAGEMENT AREA
16.12.1 All hunting shall be within the inner boundaries of the buffer zones
marked as posted by the Department.
16.12.2 Only shotguns and bow & arrows may be possessed or used while
hunting.
16.12.3 The hunting of and/or possession of Mourning Dove or Wild Pigeons
(Rock Dove) is prohibited.
16.13 NINIGRET CONSERVATION AREA / EAST BEACH
16.13.1 Designated as an undeveloped State Park and is open for small game and
Archery Deer Hunting only.
16.14 Permits for trapping all management areas may be obtained from the Division of
Fish & Wildlife at the Great Swamp Field Headquarters.
16.15 SIMMONS MILL POND MANAGEMENT AREA –Deer hunting using archery,
muzzleloader and shotgun is permitted while hunting within the Simmons Mill
Pond Management in Little Compton. Sunday hunting will be allowed. (See
Section 11, Firearms)
Section 17 – Miscellaneous Regulations
17.1
The playing of golf or the driving of golf balls is permitted only in designated
areas at designated time.
17.2
Bicycles, mountain bikes, and horses shall only be used on designated trails and
roads for said use.
17.3
Horses, bicycles or motorcycles are prohibited in streams, rivers or bodies of
water except at designated crossings (trails and roads.) Exceptions are granted to
hikers, fishermen, boaters, hunters and swimmers using official designated areas
in an appropriate manner.
17.4
Closure of Management Areas and/or roads and trails may occur if environmental
conditions warrant.
17.5
Washing of vehicles, bicycles, or animals is prohibited in any natural body of
water.
17.6
The feeding of all wildlife, migratory waterfowl, or any feral animal is prohibited
within any State Park, Beach, or Management Area.
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17.7
There shall be no traveling by vehicles in streams, rivers or bodies of water except
to cross at designated crossings (trails, roads).
17.8
Wildlife Food patches can only be used by hikers, hunters, and for running of
dogs. The use of food patches is prohibited between June 1
st and August 15
th,
except for the running of dogs in designated areas.
17.9
Rock climbing is permitted at state parks, and management areas except at Fort
Wetherill State Park, Jamestown. However, in State Park Areas individuals
participating in rock climbing activities must sign a release and waiver of liability
(a copy of which is attached hereto and designated as Appendix # 1) prior to
commencement of rock climbing activity. For organized group of any size, a
group must submit a Special Use Application to the Chief of the Division of Parks
and Recreation and obtain prior written approval of said Application. In addition,
each member of the group of participants must sign Appendix #1 prior to
commencement of any rock climbing activities in the State Parks. If the
organized group is being sponsored by a commercial entity, the sponsor must
provide evidence of the issuance of liability insurance in the amount of at least
One Million ($1,000,000.00) Dollars naming the State of Rhode Island as an
additional insured at the time of the submittal of its Special Use Application.
17.10 All users of State Management Areas must wear at least 200 square inches of
solid daylight fluorescent orange material such as a hat or vest, visible from all
directions, from the second 2nd Saturday in September to the last day of February.
Exceptions include boat launching sites, raccoon hunters at night, archers in tree
stands, or waterfowl hunters as provided.
Section 18 – Mooring
18.1
No person shall moor, dock or berth a vessel, boat, or any other object overnight
except in designated mooring, docking, or berthing areas.
18.2
The Regional Manager may, by posting of an order, specify time limits for the
mooring, docking, or berthing of a vessel, boat or any other object at mooring,
docking, or berthing facilities. No person shall moor, dock, or berth a vessel, boat
or any other object in violation of time limits so established. (See also Section 25,
Swimming and Bathing)
Section 19 – Motorcycle use in Arcadia Management Area
19.1
Motorcycle use is only allowed within designated areas of Arcadia Management
Area subject to conditions 20.2 through 20.6 listed below. Town and state roads
within the Arcadia Management Area which are not part of the designated route
may be used at any time provided all local and state motor vehicle regulations are
adhered to. The designated trail for motorcycle use is subject to change or
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correction by the Department of Environmental Management if conditions
warrant. The designated trail (18.9 miles total loop) for motorcycle use shall
consist of gravel roads and fire trails as delineated on the Arcadia Trail Map and
described as follows: Arcadia Road; Austin Farm Road; Brook Trail; Barber
Road; Blitzkrieg Trail; Bliven Trail; Frosty Hollow Road; Mt. Tom Road;
Summit Road; Old Ten Rod Road (White Church Trail).
19.2
Only street-legal registered motorcycles operated by riders who hold a valid
motorcycle operator’s license may use the area. Riders must also maintain
liability insurance according to Rhode Island State law.
19.3
No riding shall be allowed behind any gated gravel or fire trail unless said roads
are designated for motorcycle use. Motorcycles are not allowed on hiking trails
and single-track trails.
19.4
No new motorcycle trails shall be cut or created within the Arcadia Management
Area.
19.5
Trails may be periodically closed by DEM for use by motorcycles when habitat or
natural resource protection issues, weather, or road conditions warrant. Such
conditions may include, but are not limited to, high/extreme fire danger or
seasonal muddy conditions. There shall be no motorcycle riding beyond gated
portions of the loop during March, April, and before 1300 hours during May.
19.6
Speed limit on the trail designated for motorcycle use shall be 25 mph or as
posted.
19.7
Use of “Trials” motorcycles in the Arcadia Management Area is covered under a
separate Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Rhode Island Trials
Club and DEM. The MOU designates the portion of Arcadia where Trials riding
can occur and the time of year that use is permitted. The use of the management
area by RITC and the MOU will be evaluated by DEM on an annual basis to
determine if changes are necessary in order to protect the natural resources of the
Arcadia Area.
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Section 20 – Motor Vehicles
20.1
The traffic laws of the State of Rhode Island are fully applicable unless these
regulations provide otherwise.
20.2
All motor vehicles must be legally street registered and operated by a licensed
driver.
20.3
Motor vehicles shall be operated only in designated areas, no motor vehicles are
allowed off roads or trails where prohibited, except with official written
permission. All electrically propelled devices, except those used to assist
handicap or disabled persons are prohibited on state property unless prior
permission has been obtained from the park manager.
20.4
No person shall park a vehicle so as to block any road or trail or to prevent access
to others, nor shall they block another vehicle in a designated parking area, nor
shall any vehicle be parked in any area, where prohibited.
20.5
The speed limit is 25 miles per hour unless otherwise posted.
20.6
The operator of a motor vehicle shall grant the right-of-way to all pedestrians,
persons on horseback and who are using or crossing roads, trails or highways.
20.7
Airborne conveyances such as balloons, gliders, engine-powered airplanes and
ultra-lights shall not be operated without official written permission from
Individual Park Facility Manager.
20.8
Off-highway recreational vehicles shall be street legally registered and used in
accordance with law. Their use shall be limited to designated areas or trails at
designated times.
20.9
No person shall wash, polish, clean, change oil, or repair any motor vehicle or
motorcycle in a public reservation.
20.10 Snowmobile Operation –General Snowmobiles shall be allowed at designated
areas and at times designated for those areas.
20.10.1 Snowmobiles must operate within the posted speed limit for that area.
20.10.2 Operators shall grant the right-of-way to all pedestrian, horses and
vehicular traffic when operating and crossing roads or trails.
20.10.3 Snowmobiles shall not operate in a manner intended to or reasonably be
expected to harass, drive or pursue any wildlife.
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20.10.4 In addition to firearm restrictions in RIGL §§ 31-3.2, carrying of bows
and arrows-all arrows shall not be nocked and shall be secured to the
bow or in a quiver or other container.
20.11 Snowmobile Operation-Management Area
20.11.1 Hours of operation are one-half (1/2) hour before sunrise to 11:00 PM in
Arcadia and George Washington, only. During the period one-half (1/2)
hour after sunset to 11:00 PM, the buddy system must be used.
20.11.2 Hours of operation are one-half (1/2) hour before sunrise to one-half
(1/2) hour after sunset in Burlingame Management Area, Wickaboxet,
and Woody Hill, only.
20.11.3 During the established shotgun deer season, snowmobiling is not
permitted in management areas.
20.11.4 Snowmobiles Operation-Parks
20.11.5 Hours of operation are sunrise to sunset in Burlingame, Colt, Lincoln
Woods and Snake Den. (See Section 31-3.2, Snowmobiles.)
20.12 The vehicle patterns as established by the filing on May 5, 1972 Regulations of
the Department of Natural Resources for Colt State Park, which became effective
on June 1, 1972 shall remain in force and are incorporated herein by reference.
20.13 The Les Pawson Loop shall have a one-way counter-clockwise traffic pattern with
two exceptions. When the gates across the road are closed, traffic shall be two-
way. That section of road, which lies between Twin River Road and the North
Parking Lot area, shall be two-way.
20.14 Commercial vehicles in excess of two and one-half (2-1/2) tons gross weight are
prohibited on the highway running through Veterans Memorial Parkway in East
Providence, Dean Parkway in Cranston, and Narragansett Parkway in Warwick,
except by official written permission.
Section 21 – Picnicking and Playing Field Permits
21.1
No person shall use a picnic table at Goddard Memorial State Park, Burlingame
Picnic Area, or Lincoln Woods State Park without first obtaining a permit.
21.2
When conflicts arise in permit applications for playing field league use, the
following priorities shall apply:
21.2.1 Every consideration shall be given by the Division of Parks and
Recreation to provide opportunities, consistent with public safety, for such
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conflicting recreational uses by time or space zoning or by other controls
and devices.
21.2.2 Prior playing field league users will receive first consideration for
traditional times and areas.
21.2.3 Children's playing leagues will receive priority over adult leagues and use
shall be established pursuant to items 1 and 2 stated above.
21.3
Users of the pavilion and/or ball field at Browning Mill Pond must obtain a permit
prior to use from the Arcadia Headquarters, 260 Arcadia Road, Hope Valley, RI
02832, (401) 539-2356.
Section 22 – Refunds
22.1
No refunds are allowed unless authorized by the director or designee.
Section 23 – Special Events
23.1
Arcadia and George Washington Management Areas
23.1.1 Special Event permits are required for any group of 75 participants or
more and shall not exceed a total of 150 participants.
23.1.2 Permits will be issued during the period of July 1
st through September 30th
ONLY.
23.1.3 Exemptions from the limitation on the maximum participants and/or time
of year restrictions may be granted by the DEM for educational
workshops, use of picnic/beach areas, and use of DEM boat launching
ramps for fishing tournaments.
23.1.4 The Arcadia and George Washington Management Areas will be granted
two (2) special event permits each during the period designated in 23.1.2.
These permits will be granted for these Management Areas ONLY.
23.1.5 Applications to hold a special event must be submitted to Stateland
Management Council for review and approval. Applications must be
submitted from January 1
st to the last day of February of the year that the
event will take place. Applications will be reviewed by DEM to determine
if they meet the requirements specified by this policy. If necessary, permit
applications will be selected by a lottery drawing that will be held on the
first Monday in March at 1200 hours (noon). In the event that all the
allotted special event permits are not filled by the first Monday in August,
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remaining permits will be issued on a first-come, first-served basis. No
more than two special event permits will be issued per year per individual
recreation use type to allow fair access to other user groups.
23.1.6 DEM, at its sole discretion, will determine the suitability of a proposed
event at the management area requested and may refuse permission if the
event threatens the integrity of the management area’s natural resources,
including but not limited to soil, water, fish, wildlife, and forest and
DEM’s responsibility to provide for availability to the public for multiple
use of the area.
23.1.7 DEM at its sole discretion can impose restrictions or refuse to permit an
event during periods of high or extreme fire danger or where
environmental, public health, and/or safety concerns so dictate.
23.1.8 Special event sponsors shall be responsible for the following in running an
event:
23.1.8.1 Paying for adequate DEM law enforcement personnel during
events.
23.1.8.2 Notifying and obtaining written permission for said use from all
local towns/cities affected by the event. Written permission must
be submitted before the permit will be issued.
23.1.8.3 Notifying state and local police, fire, and rescue of the event.
23.1.8.4 All event sponsors shall provide a liability insurance policy of
$1,000,000 and must sign an indemnification of the state and all
its employees. Event sponsors shall be required to post a bond
payable to DEM in an amount DEM determines to be necessary
and appropriate to reimburse DEM for any damages incurred as a
result of the event and which has not been repaired by the event
sponsors within seven (7) days of the closing of the event. The
event sponsors shall also be required to execute an agreement in
which the sponsors agree to be personally liable, both jointly and
severally, for any damage as determined by DEM to have
resulted from the permitted event over and above amount of the
bond.
23.1.8.5 All participants must sign a liability waiver and release for the
State.
23.1.8.6 Event sponsors shall be responsible for repairing any damage to
the management area caused by the event in the time designated
in the permit.
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23.1.8.7 Event sponsors are responsible for removing all signs, markers,
and trash from the management area caused by the event within
one week of its conclusion.
23.1.8.8 Event sponsors shall provide to DEM an estimation of the
number of spectators that can be expected for an event.
23.1.8.9 DEM reserves the right to include additional special conditions
on any permitted event if conditions so warrant.
23.1.8.10These regulations do not apply to the use of areas under the
jurisdiction of the DEM’s Division of Parks and Recreation.
Section 24 – State Park Policies
24.1
Specific written policies relating to individual park units may be promulgated by
Regional Park Managers with the prior approval of the Chief of the Division of Parks
and Recreation. Such written policies shall be kept on file at the Division of Parks
and Recreation Headquarters.
Section 25 – Swimming, Bathing, Floating
25.1
No person shall bathe or swim except in areas specifically designated for such
purposes and only during posted or permitted times.
25.2
The use of flotation equipment and other objects including fishing float tubes capable
of supporting a person while the person is in the water, is prohibited in the following
areas:
25.2.1 All designated bathing areas, except that a Coast Guard Approved
Personnel Floatation Devices (PFDs) may be utilized in designated swim
areas by individuals with disabilities under the supervision of an adult and
approval of a Beach Manager or Lifeguard Supervisor.
25.2.2 Carolina Trout Pond, Richmond
25.2.3 Frosty Hollow Pond, Exeter
25.2.4 Little Round Top Pond, Burrillville
25.2.5 A.L. Mowry Pond, Smithfield
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Section 26 – Target Range Regulations
26.1
GUN HANDLING REQUIREMENTS – While using the target range, all
users shall:
26.1.1 TREAT ALL FIREARMS AS IF LOADED. Keep the muzzle of the
firearm pointed in a safe direction at all times. Keep firearms pointed
down range while on the firing line.
26.1.2 Keep his/her finger off the trigger until ready to shoot.
26.1.3 Keep the action open and the firearm unloaded until ready to shoot. For
range purposes, muzzleloading firearms are considered unloaded when
free of powder, projectile, and primer.
26.1.4 Know his/her target and what is beyond.
26.1.5 Know how to safely operate his/her firearm.
26.1.6 Use only the correct ammunition for his/her firearm.
26.1.7 Not handle firearms or stand at the firing line where firearms are present
while others are down range or during any “cease fire” period.
26.1.8 In the event a “cease fire” command is called by any individual on the
range, immediately bench all firearms, and move to the area behind the
yellow line known as the “ready line”.
26.1.9 In case of misfire or hang fire, point his/her firearm down range until it
can be safely cleared.
26.1.10 Perform aimed fire only. No uncontrolled rapid fire, shooting from the
hip, “combat style” shooting, or drawing from a holster.
26.1.11 Never use alcohol or drugs before or while shooting.
26.1.12 Transport firearms to and from the parking lot unloaded and cased.
Holstered firearms are not permitted. Upon entering the firing line,
firearms must be uncased at the shooting bench with the muzzle pointed
down range.
26.1.13 Control his/her firearms and ammunition to prevent access by
unauthorized persons.
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26.2
GENERAL RANGE REGULATIONS – At all times, while present on the
target range, all individuals shall observe the following:
26.2.1 No cell phones or electronic devices not related to shooting are allowed on
the firing line.
26.2.2 Dress properly. No flip-flops, sandals or open toed shoes. No sleeveless
shirts, tank tops, bikini tops, low cut blouses or shirtless.
26.2.3 Know and obey all range regulations and commands.
26.2.4 Know where others are at all times and be aware of his/her surroundings.
26.2.5 No smoking on, or within twenty (20) feet of the firing line.
26.2.6 Climbing on berms and backstop is prohibited.
26.2.7 Mining of lead from berms and backstop is prohibited.
26.2.8 Firing at targets on the ground, or placing targets on the berms or backstop
is prohibited.
26.2.9 Firing at objects other than prescribed targets is prohibited.
26.2.10No incendiary (tracer type) ammunition is allowed.
26.2.11 Guests are not allowed on the firing line.
26.2.12 Please limit range time to one (1) hour when others are waiting to shoot.
26.2.13 The Wildlife Management Area requirement of solid daylight fluorescent
orange is not required of Rifle/Pistol Range users.
26.3
REGULATIONS FOR RIFLE / PISTOL RANGE
26.3.1 The discharge of any firearm other than a handgun, shotgun, rimfire rifle,
muzzleloading rifle, or airgun is prohibited on the rifle/pistol range.
26.3.2 The use of shot ammunition on the pistol/rifle range is limited to
patterning for seasonal hunting. Appropriate shot and patterning targets
required.
26.3.3 No firing from positions forward of the designated firing line.
26.3.4 No firing from positions other than a designated shooting lane.
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26.3.5 Use only the provided target stand designated for your shooting lane. No
cross firing to other shooting lanes.
26.3.6 Use paper targets only no larger than 15” x 20”. All other targets are
prohibited. Human silhouette targets and targets depicting people are not
allowed.
26.4
REGULATIONS FOR CLAY TARGET RANGE
26.4.1 The discharge of any firearm other than a shotgun is prohibited on the clay
target range.
26.4.2 Ammunition is limited to maximum shot size of # 7-1/2 lead, or
equivalent size non-toxic shot. No larger shot size or slugs are permitted
on the shotgun range.
26.4.3 Clay pigeons are the only allowable target on the shotgun range.
26.4.4 Shoot from designated shooting stations only.
26.4.5 Guns are to be unloaded, actions open, when not standing in a designated
shooting station.
26.4.6 Load no more than two (2) shells at a time.
26.4.7 Only two (2) shooters may simultaneously utilize the shotgun range.
26.4.8 At no time shall shots be fired, or clay targets launched toward the parking
area or rifle range.
26.5
ADMINISTRATIVE RULES
26.5.1 All users must obtain a range permit prior to using the target range.
Range permit may be issued by mail ONLY. The RI Division of Fish &
Wildlife reserves the right to limit the number of permits issued and are
non-transferable.
26.5.2 To apply for a range permit through the mail, all applicants eighteen (18)
years of age or older must:
26.5.2.1 Obtain an application from the RI Division of Fish & Wildlife,
Great Swamp Field Headquarters, 277 Great Neck Rd., West
Kingston, RI 02892 or the Fish and Wildlife Education Office at
1B Camp E-Hun-Tee Place, Exeter, RI 02822 or at
www.dem.ri.gov.
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26.5.2.2 Complete the application form and have his/her signature
notarized.
26.5.2.3 Attach a copy of your driver’s license or other government
issued picture ID along with one of the following certifications:
a. State issued Hunter Education Card
b. Valid, state issued, firearms hunting license
c. DEM Pistol/Revolver Certification Card (Blue Card)
d. Valid, RI Department of Attorney General Pistol Permit
e. Active Military I.D.
f. Equivalent Certification as determined by the RI Division of
Fish and Wildlife.
26.5.2.4 Mail the completed application package along with a LEGAL
SIZE, self-addressed stamped envelope to: Range Permit, RI
Division of Fish and Wildlife, 1B Camp E-Hun-Tee Place,
Exeter, RI 02822.
26.5.2.5. When this material is received, applicants will be notified that
they are eligible to attend a range safety briefing. A range pass
will be issued at the conclusion of the range safety briefing.
Applications for minors (under 18 years of age) must include the
notarized signature and a copy of the driver’s license or other
government issued picture ID of a parent or legal guardian.
Minors are exempt from requirement three (3) of the application
process. Illegible, incomplete, or incorrect permit applications
will not be processed.
26.5.2.6 For renewal of permits issued in 2010 or later, please complete
the Target Range Permit Application and check the RENEWAL
box at the top right and attach your previous permit. It is not
necessary to attach your certification or have your signature
notarized unless you are moving from a “minor” to an “adult”
permit in which case you must apply as a new user. Users who
renew must attend a safety briefing to be updated on any changes
in regulations or policy.
26.5.3 All minors (under 18) must be accompanied by a “qualified adult” when
using the range. A “qualified adult” is any person twenty-one (21) years of
age or older who is permitted by law to possess and use a firearm. The
“qualified adult” must also possess a valid range permit and is directly
responsible for the actions of minors under their supervision. The
“qualified adult” must assure by direct supervision that minors follow all
mandated safety procedures. The “qualified adult” shall supervise only
one (1) minor at a time.
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26.5.4 All individuals must wear their Range Permit so it is visible to other users
and to supervisory personnel. The Range Permit must be presented, upon
request, to any authorized person.
26.5.5 Persons so designated by the RI Division of Fish & Wildlife are
authorized to carry out the Rules and Regulations with regard to range
users.
26.5.6 Hours of operation will vary by season and environmental conditions and
availability of staff. The Division of Fish & Wildlife reserves the right to
alter hours and days of operation as conditions warrant.3.
26.5.7 The primary use of the range is for Hunter Education training. Secondary
use is for public practice. Range may be closed without notice for special
training, maintenance, safety, or weather conditions.
26.5.8 Pets must be leashed and strictly controlled at all times. No pets are
allowed on the firing line. At no time should pets be allowed to interfere
with the range operation.
26.5.9 Parking is allowed in designated parking area only.
26.5.10 Individuals are responsible to dispose of all trash generated, including
shell casings, prior to leaving the range.
26.5.11 ASSUMPTION OF THE RISK OF INJURY AND INDEMNIFICATION
In exchange for a person’s use of the target range facility or issuance of a
range permit for such use or the issuance of a range permit to a minor at
the person’s request, said person agrees that he/she shall at all times
assume full liability for any injuries which he/she or the subject minor
may suffer while at or near the target range facility. In addition, said
person shall hold the state and its agents harmless from any and all claims
or damage suits arising from the person’s or the subject minor’s actions at
or near the target range facility either by way of omission or commission.
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26.6
ADMINISTRATIVE SUSPENSION/REVOCATION OF PERMIT
26.6.1 Any person who is found, pursuant to the authority of RIGL §§42-17.1-2,
to have committed a violation of any of the obligations set out in Section
26, shall have his or her range permit suspended for a period of thirty (30)
days.
26.6.2 Any person who is found, pursuant to the authority of RIGL §§42-17.1-2,
to have committed a violation of any of the obligations set out in this
Section 26 within three (3) years of the violation which gave rise to the
suspension of his or her range permit pursuant to Part 26.6.1 shall have his
or her range permit suspended for a period of sixty (60) days.
26.6.3 Any person who is found, pursuant to the authority of RIGL §§42-17.1-2,
to have committed a violation of any of the obligations set out in this
section within three (3) years of the violation, which gave rise to the
suspension of his or her range permit pursuant to Part 26.6.2 shall have his
or her range permit suspended for a period of one (1) year.
26.6.4 Any person who is found, pursuant to the authority of RIGL §§42-17.1-2,
to have committed a violation of any obligations set out in this Section 26
within three (3) years of the violation, which gave rise to the suspension of
his or her range permit pursuant to Part 26.6.3 shall be permanently
ineligible for the issuance of a range permit.
26.6.5 Any person aggrieved by a final decision pursuant to Section 26, may
appeal the decision in accordance with the provisions of the
Administrative Procedures Act, RIGL §§42-35 and the Administrative
Adjudication for Environmental Matters Act, RIGL §§42-17.7.
26.7
ADMINISTRATIVE PENALTIES
26.7.1 Any person who is found, pursuant to the authority of RIGL §§42-17.1-2,
to have used or to have attempted to use the target range prior to having
been issued a range permit or during a period when the range is closed
shall be assessed an administrative penalty in the amount of one hundred
dollars ($100.00).
26.7.2 Any person who is found, pursuant to the authority of RIGL §§42-17.1-2,
to have used or to have attempted to use the target range during the period
of a suspension/revocation of his or her range permit pursuant to Part 26.6
shall be assessed an administrative penalty in the amount of two hundred
fifty dollars ($250.00).
26.7.3 Any person aggrieved by a final decision pursuant to Section 26, may
appeal the decision in accordance with the provisions of the
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Administrative Procedures Act, RIGL §§42-35 and the Administrative
Adjudication for Environmental Matters Act, RIGL §§42-17.7.
Section 27 – Trash and Litter
27.1
No person shall bring into any public reservation any trash, ashes, garbage
or any other material for the purpose of disposal.
27.2
All trash and waste material shall be deposited in receptacles provided for
that purpose and shall not be left on the grounds or waters.
27.3
In areas designated as Carry In/Carry Out, all trash must be carried out of
the area for proper disposal.
Section 28 – Trees, Shrubs, Buildings
28.1
No person shall cut, remove or damage any tree, stone walls, natural
element or feature, including but not limited to fossils and minerals, shrub
or vegetation except with official written permission, nor shall any person
deface or alter any structure, sign, or other public property or
improvements.
Section 29 – Area Specific Regulations
29.1
Bay Islands
29.1.1 Camping in the Bay Islands is prohibited.
29.1.2 From the period April 1
st through August 15
th annually, there shall
be no trespassing, disturbing, or molesting of any species of
nesting birds on Hope Island in the West Passage; East Island and
West Island off Sakonnet Point, or Gould Island in the East
Passage, except by special permit official written permission from
an authorized Representative of the Department of Environmental
Management. All cats, dogs and other domestic animals are
prohibited at all times upon these islands, except for hunting dogs
that may be used during the period set aside by the Department for
hunting of game birds and mammals on Hope Island only.
29.2
Beavertail State Park
29.2.1 The Rules and Regulations for the Development and Operation of
Beavertail State Park, Jamestown, Rhode Island, which were
received by the Office of the Secretary of State on August 15,
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1980, shall remain in force and are incorporated herein by
reference.
29.3
Charlestown Breachway
29.3.1 Camping permits shall be issued at the Charlestown Breachway on
a "first-come, first-serve” basis. Camping is limited to fully self-
contained vehicles. The permits shall run from 1:00 PM on date of
issuance to 11:00 AM at end of camping period.
29.3.2 No canvas top camping units shall be allowed in the day use areas
or camping areas.
29.3.3 No camping shall be allowed in the Day Use Lot.
29.3.4 At Charlestown Breachway the maximum period of permit is
seven days. There shall be a four-day minimum break prior to any
re-occupancy.
29.3.5 All visitors to the camping area will pay the daily parking rate and
park in the day use parking lot.
29.3.6 Only one additional non-towed vehicle is allowed to be parked in
the camping area per site. Vehicle pass is required.
29.4
Campground Reservations
29.4.1 Reservations shall be accepted for State camping areas in
accordance with the procedures and policies established by the
Department, and amended as necessary, for the proper
administration of a campground reservation system and with a
State authorized campground reservation system provider.
29.5
Salty Brine State Beach
29.5.1 The parking lot at Salty Brine State Beach is for the use of State
Beach Patrons only. All vehicles using the lot must fit within the
designated parking spaces and cannot protrude or obstruct any
traffic within the parking lot.
29.6
Ninigret Conservation Area / East Beach
29.6.1 No more than thirty (30) day use barrier beach vehicles, DEM
inspected, are permitted beyond the beach parking lot at any one
time.
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29.6.2 Camping permits shall be issued at the Ninigret area on a "first-
come, first-served" basis. Camping is limited to self-contained
vehicles, properly DEM inspected and licensed. Only twenty (20)
camping permits may be issued at any one time. The permits shall
run from 1:00 PM on the date of issuance to 11:00 AM at the end
of camping period.
29.6.3 At the end of a consecutive 72-hour period, self-contained units
must leave the Ninigret area and empty holding tanks at designated
dumping stations. This operation shall be verified by the clerk on
duty at the dump station.
29.6.4 No person may occupy a campground for more than a continuous
four (4) day period with a three (3) day minimum break prior to
any re-occupancy.
29.6.5 Parking shall be allowed only in designated areas. All holes and
ruts caused by immobilized vehicles shall be filled and the area left
in good condition by the operator of the vehicle causing damage.
29.6.6 All persons and vehicles must vacate the designated beach parking
area by sunset. Parking is prohibited in the beach parking area
before sunrise.
29.6.7 Day use vehicles displaying a season pass or paying the daily
beach fee will be allowed only in the beach parking area
designated for this purpose, unless given official written
permission to use the Back Track.
29.7
Purgatory Chasm
29.7.1 Parking is prohibited from sunset to sunrise the following day.
29.7.2 Parking in excess of thirty (30) minutes is prohibited.
29.8
Salter Grove
29.8.1 No person or vehicle shall be allowed within the limits of the State
Park at Salter Grove, in the City of Warwick, between the hours of
sunset and sunrise the following day except by official written
permission by City of Warwick.
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29.9
Meshanticut Grove
29.9.1 No person or vehicle shall be allowed within the limits of
Meshanticut State Park, in the City of Cranston, between the hours
of sunset and sunrise the following day except by official written
permission.
Section 30 – Penalties for Violation
30.1
PENALTIES: Any person found to have violated any rule and/or
regulation shall be subject to a fine not to exceed $100.00 for each
violation, except Section 26, which is governed by 26.6 and 26.7.
30.2
All persons failing to pay or evade payment of any user or admission fee
shall be subject to the penalty provision R.I.G.L. §§1956 (1982
Reenactment) 32.2.4 as amended.
30.3
No person shall refuse or neglect to obey the direction of an environmental
police officer or forest ranger or any other authorized representative of the
Department of Environmental Management.
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Appendix 1 – Permits
Many kinds of permits are required for a variety of activities on DEM properties and
reservations. This appendix will serve to reference specific permits to their appropriate
sections:
Airborne Conveyances Section 20
Alcoholic Beverages Section 13
Ball Fields Section 21
Engine Propelled Models Section 3
Camping Section 7 & 8
Dog Training & Field Trials Section 16
Horseback Riding Section 2
Camp Fires Section 12
Picnicking Section 21
Pavilions Section 21
Power Boats Section 6
Reservations for Camping Permits Section 7 & 8
Range Section 27
Organized Events Section 24
Sale of Food Section 13
Salters Grove Section 30
Special Use Permits Section 24
Large Events Section 24
Scientific Collectors Section 4
Target Range Section 27
Rock Climbing Section 17
Releasing Game Birds Section 16*
Burlingame North Camp Section 16*
Great Swamp Waterfowl Impoundment Section 16
Northwest Cooperative Section 16*
Prudence Archery Deer Section 16*
South Shore Management Area Goose Fields Section 16*
*See Current Hunting Abstracts
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Park and Management Area Rules and Regulations
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Appendix 2 – State Parks and Beaches
PARKS
Beavertail State Park *
Blackstone River State Park Bikeway
Brenton Point State Park
Burlingame State Park
Burlingame Campground
Burlingame North Camp*
Cocumcussoc Park*
Colt State Park
Diamond Hill State Park*
East Bay Bike Path
Fisherman’s Memorial State Park (Campground)
Fort Adams State Park
Fort Wetherill State Park
George Washington State Park (Campground)
Goddard Memorial State Park
Haines Memorial State Park
John H. Chaffee Nature Preserve
J.L. Curran* State Park *
Lincoln Woods State Park
Meshanicut Park
Ninigret Conservation Area / East Beach*
Pulaski State Park
Snake Den State Park *
Washington Grove*
World War II Memorial State Park
* Undeveloped, hunting permitted according to regulations in Section 16 of the Parks and
Management Area Regulations and current Wildlife Hunting Regulations and Abstract.
BEACHES
Charlestown Breachway-Camp Area
Ninigret Conservation Area / East Beach-Camp Area
East Matunuck State Beach
Misquamicut State Beach
Salty Brine State Beach
Scarborough North & South Beaches
Roger W. Wheeler State Beach
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Appendix 3 – Wildlife Management Areas
Arcadia
Black Hut
Black Farm
Big River
Buck Hill
Burlingame
Carolina
Durfee Hill
Dutch Island
Galilee Bird Sanctuary
George Washington
Great Swamp
Grills Preserve
Killingly
Newton Swamp
Nicholas Farm
Prudence and Patience Islands
Rockville
Sapowet Marsh
Simmons Mill
South Shore
Tillinghast
Wickaboxet
Woody Hill
Note: See Hunting & Trapping Abstract for restrictions.
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Appendix 4 – Management Areas Access
Durfee
Reynolds Road - Parking lots along road
Nicholas Farm
Nicholas Road
Parking lot north and south sides’ fields – short walk.
Roadside parking and lot at fishing access
Sapowet Marsh
Sapowet Road
Roadside parking and lot at fishing access
Big River
Burnt Sawmill Road - Roadside parking – small lot
Congdon Mill Road - Roadside parking
Burlingame
Buckeye Brook Road - Gate open until end of December, Weather permitting
Carolina
White Brook Trail
Parking lot, wide trail access to Nichols Trail
Check Station to Andrews Trail Parking lot, flat trail access fields
of Carolina south
Meadow Brook Trail Access to field from this trail,
parking lot adjacent to fields.
Essex Trail Gated. Small parking area, flat
trail to adjacent fields.
Great Swamp
Liberty Lane & Great Neck Rd.
Fields along Liberty Lane and Great Neck Rd. with small adjacent parking areas.
Road to shooting range and sub-station with pull-off parking areas.
Arcadia
Woodmansee Unit Rte. 165
Pratt Farm Summit Road
Richmond Sister K.G. Ranch Road
Austin Farm Road Gates open until end of December - weather permitting
Barber Trail Gates open until end of December.
Breakheart/Stone Trail Flat wide trail extends past gated area with parking lot.
Samos Unit Escoheag Hill Rd., north of Austin Farm Rd.
Mt. Tom Field Extends a short distance from gated road parking.
Park and Management Area Rules and Regulations
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South Shore Mgt. Area
Field 5
Portable blind in hedgerow available.
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Section 31 – Effective Date
The foregoing Park and Management Area Rules and Regulations, after due
notice, are hereby adopted and filed with the Secretary of State to become
effective twenty (20) days thereafter, in accordance with the provisions of
Chapters 20-1-2, 20-1-4, 20-1-8, 20-18, 32-2-4, 31-3.2, 42-17.1, 42-17.6, and 42-
35 of the RIGL’s of 1956, as amended.
____________________________________
Janet L. Coit, Director
Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management
Notice Given: 9/30/2016
Effective Date: 10/30/2016
ERLID #: 8403