250-RICR-100-00-1
250-RICR-100-00-1. Park and Management Area Rules and Regulations (version Amendment, 08/02/2020 to 07/12/2021)
1.1 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 ("RIDEM").
1.2 Authority
These Rules and Regulations
are promulgated pursuant to R.I. Gen. Laws §§ 20-1-2,
20-1-4, and 20-1-8, and R.I. Gen. Laws Chapters 42-17.1, 42-17.6,
42-17.10, 20-18, 20-15, 32-2 and 32-3 and in accordance with R.I.
Gen. Laws Chapter 42-35, the Administrative Procedures Act.
1.3 Administrative Findings
These Rules and Regulations
were initially promulgated in order to address the often confusing
and sometimes conflicting situation that was created due to the fact
that numerous regulations administrated by several different
divisions had authority over certain aspects of the RIDEM’s
Parks and Management Areas. This current amendment is an effort to
make those Rules and Regulations more effective and user friendly.
1.4 Application
The terms and provisions of
these Rules and Regulations shall be liberally construed to permit
the RIDEM to effectuate the purposes of State Law, goals, and
policies.
1.5 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.
1.6 Superseded Rules and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and Management Area Rules and Regulations shall be superseded.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 RIDEM 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.
1.7 Definitions
"Authorized
representative of the Department of Environmental Management"
means an employee or agent of the RIDEM.
"Archery equipment"
means long bow, recurve bow, compound bow or crossbow.
"Blank gun" means
any firearm designed to discharge only blank cartridges and is
incapable of propelling any type of projectile.
"Camping" means 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.
"Designated areas"
means any part of a Public Reservation specially set aside for one
(1) or more purposes and identified as such either by the posting of
a sign or signs or so posted at the Public Reservation headquarters.
"Disabled person”
means an individual who has been issued by the Registry of Motor
Vehicles, and whose vehicle displays a current certificate issued
pursuant to R.I. Gen. Laws § 31-28-7 entitling that individual
to parking privileges afforded to a disabled individual.
"Domestic animals"
means 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 defined
in Rules and Regulations Governing the Importation and Possession of
Wild Animals, Part 40-05-3
of this Title.
“Firearm” means
any machine gun, rifle, shotgun, pistol, air rifle, air pistol, and
“blank gun”, “BB gun" or other instrument from
which steel or metal projectiles are propelled, or which may readily
be converted to expel a projectile.
“Float tube”
means any device manufactured and sold for use as a fishing float
tube.
“Management area”
means 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.
“Motor vehicle”
means 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.
“Migratory waterfowl”
means per R.I. Gen. Laws § 20-3-34, all waterfowl species in the
family Anatidae, including wild ducks, geese, brant, and swans.
“Native wildlife”
means all species of animals, including all subspecies thereof,
occurring naturally, either presently or historically, within the
boundaries of the State of Rhode Island, regardless of where the
animal originated.
“Off-road recreational
vehicle” means any motorized vehicles which were manufactured
or modified for 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.
“Official written
permission” means written permission obtained from an
Authorized Representative of the RIDEM.
“Open air fire”
means any fire in the outdoors or in a structure not completely
enclosed by walls and a roof, including charcoal grills and gas
stoves.
“Park” means any
property under the jurisdiction of the Department’s Division of
Parks and Recreation.
“Permitted organized
fishing activity" means events or tournaments that are permitted
through the RIDEM, Division of Fish and Wildlife with all rules and
stipulations included therein. (See Fishing Regulations for the
Season, Part 60-00-10
of this Title)
“Person” means an
individual, firm, corporation, society, association, partnership, or
private or public body.
“Public reservation”
means any property under the care, control or custody of the RIDEM.
"Proficiency testing"
means the measurable demonstration of skills with bows and arrows or
use of firearms using a set of standards as determined by the hunter
education program.
"Rock climbing"
means 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.
"Scientific collector's
permit" means a permit issued by the Division of Fish and
Wildlife for the collecting, taking, handling, and or possession of
any species of wild animal for purposes of scientific study or
management, carrying out scientific experiments, or cultivation
projects. (See Rules and Regulations Governing Collector's Permits,
Part 60-00-4
of this Title)
"Snowmobiles" means
a motor vehicle designed to travel over ice or snow, and supported in
whole or in part by skis, belts, or cleats.
"Special event"
means any activity in which seventy-five (75) or more participants
not to exceed one hundred fifty (150) participants assemble on a
Public Reservation not under the jurisdiction of the Division of
Parks and Recreation.
"Special use permit"
means official written permission for authorized groups either
organized or assembled by any means including advertisement or social
media, of ten to seventy-five (10 to 75) people for Management Areas.
"Sponsor" means the
person(s) who applies for authorization to conduct, or conducts, a
Special Event as that term is defined in § 1.7 of this Part.
“State lands management
council” means internal Department coordinating group, which
includes representatives from the Divisions of Fish & Wildlife,
Parks & Recreation, Planning and Development, Forest Environment,
and Law Enforcement. The council is responsible for issuing use
permits, land use issues, improvements, maintenance and projects in
Management Areas.
"Trash" means
garbage, rubbish, waste papers, bottles or cans, debris, litter, oil,
solvents liquid waste, or other discarded materials.
"Vehicle" means
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.
"Volunteer" means
individual(s) or groups providing an authorized service on Public
Reservations for no financial gain.
"Wildlife food plot"
means any parcel of land that is physically planted or manipulated to
provide food and/or cover for wildlife.
1.8 Animals, Including Horses and
Dogs
A. 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.
B. In Management Areas,
persons may walk leashed dogs and domestic animals. The leash shall
not exceed twenty-five feet (25’) in length with animal under
control at all times.
C. All dogs must be wearing a
collar with a valid license tag on Public Reservations. See Hunting
Regulations, § 1.23 of this Part for additional dog and dog
training Regulations in Management Areas.
D. 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.
E. 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.
F. Requirements for using the
Reynolds Horsemen’s Area, Arcadia:
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. Ring is to be used for
riding or attended exercising, not to be used for turn out or
hitching.
3. No camping permitted around
ring.
4. Fencing must be
self-supporting with no nails or fasteners allowed in trees.
5. Horses are not to be tied
to trees.
6. Cemetery is not to be used
for horse turnout.
7. Only one (1) site can be
used at a time.
8. Camping allowed in
designated areas only (See Fires, § 1.18 of this Part).
9. Camping fee of three
dollars ($3.00) per night, per site.
10. Camping requirements (See
Camping for Specific Areas, § 1.14(A) of this Part).
G. Horseback riding is
prohibited in the Great Swamp Management Area during the established
small game season and the established shotgun deer season.
H. Horses shall be allowed
only in designated areas and bridle trails, except by official
written permission.
I. 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 RIDEM designated trails.
J. The exercising, training,
or running of dogs from March 15th through August 15th is prohibited
except by official written permission, or in designated areas.
K. Cross-Country skiers are
not allowed to bring dogs on designated cross-country ski trails.
L. The release of any animal
within any Public Reservation is prohibited. (See Hunting
Regulations, § 1.23 of this Part) (See Camping for All Camping
Areas, § 1.13 of this Part.)
1.9 Annoying or Questionable
Activities
A. Loitering is prohibited in
or around restrooms.
B. Activities that interfere
with designated activities are prohibited. It is unlawful for any
person to engage in disorderly conduct as described below:
1. 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;
2. 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;
3. 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;
4. Engages in conduct which
obstructs or interferes physically with a lawful meeting, procession,
or gathering;
5. Public nudity;
6. Public drunkenness.
C. Operation of sirens or any
noise audible to a person of reasonable sensitive hearing at a
distance of two hundred feet (200’) 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, unmanned aircraft systems, model boats, rockets and model
cars shall be operated on, over or from a Public Reservation only
upon receipt of official written permission. Unmanned aircraft
systems shall not be used to harass or disturb users, wildlife, or
any natural resource at a Public Reservation.
D. 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.
1.10 Archaeology
A. 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 RIDEM
without first obtaining the written approval of the Director and a
permit from the State Historical Preservation Commission.
B. All archaeological sites,
underwater historic property, and archaeological specimens, as
defined in the Antiquities Act of Rhode Island, R.I. Gen. Laws
Chapter 42-45.1, are the property of the State of Rhode Island.
C. Metal detectors and other
location devices are restricted to designated areas during specified
time periods.
1.11 Bicycles, Operator Propelled
Vehicles
A. 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 & 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.
B. Ice-skating is permitted
only in designated areas and at designated times.
C. Cross-country skiing is
permitted, except where specifically prohibited.
D. Downhill skiing and
sledding is permitted only in designated areas.
E. Windsurfers, paddle
boarders and kite surfers must launch and land only from designated
areas.
F. 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 RIDEM designated
trails (See § 1.23(H), Fluorescent Orange Requirements).
1.12 Boating Regulations
A. Boating is prohibited
within the impoundment created by the Great Swamp dike, within the
Great Swamp Management Area during the period September 1st through
March 31st annually except by licensed migratory bird hunters. All
motors are prohibited at all times.
B. Boats are prohibited on the
following ponds:
1. Round Top Pond,
Burrillville
2. Little Round Top Pond,
Burrillville
3. Peck Pond, Burrillville
4 Deep Pond, Arcadia, (off
Blitzkrieg Trail) Exeter
5. Frosty Hollow Pond, Exeter
6. Gristmill Pond, Glocester
7. Carolina Trout Pond,
Richmond
8. Lower Roaring Brook Pond,
Richmond
9. A.L. Mowry Pond, Smithfield
C. 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:
1. Upper Roaring Brook Ponds,
Exeter
2. Asa Pond, South Kingstown
D. 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:
1. Spring Lake, Burrillville
2. Union Pond, Burrillville
3. Carbuncle Pond, Coventry
4. Shippee Mill Pond, Foster
5. Clarkville Pond, Glocester
6. Lake Washington, Glocester
7. Alton Pond, Hopkinton
8. Carr Pond, North Kingstown
9. Silver Spring Lake, North
Kingstown
10. Blue Pond, Hopkinton (No
ramp)
11. Simmons Mill Pond, Little
Compton
12. Browning Mill Pond,
Richmond
13. Pawtuxet River (Hope),
Scituate
14. Barber’s Pond, South
Kingstown
E. 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:
1. Wilson Reservoir,
Burrillville
2. Keach Pond, Glocester
3. Smith and Sayles Reservoir
(Sand Dam), Glocester
4. Bowdish Reservoir,
Glocester
5. Woonasquatucket Reservoir
(Stump Pond), Smithfield
6. Indian Lake, South
Kingstown
7. Tucker Pond, South
Kingstown
8. Asheville Pond, Hopkinton
9. Locustville Pond, Hopkinton
10. Chapman’s Pond,
Westerly
F. No person shall use any
motor in excess of ten (10) horsepower launched 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, Division of Fish and
Wildlife. (See Fishing Regulations for the Season, Part 60-00-10
of this Title)
G. 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 20th
to September 20th of any year, inclusive.
H. No person shall use any
motor in excess of ten (10) horsepower launched 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.
I. The operation of boats with
motors of any kind, except electric trolling motors, is 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.
J. 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 is prohibited upon Olney Pond except with official
written permission from the RIDEM Division of Fish and Wildlife.
K. 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.
L. Only vehicles launching or
landing a boat will be permitted to park in designated boat trailer
areas, unless otherwise designated.
M. Galilee Boat Ramp Parking
Lot is designated for vehicles with attached boat trailers in
designated parking spaces only. Perpendicular parking along the
perimeter fence only. Parking in the center of lot is prohibited.
Parking is restricted to no longer than seventy-two (72) consecutive
hours. Any vehicle or trailer left longer than seventy-two (72)
consecutive hours will be towed at owner’s expense.
N. 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.
O. Boats shall be launched
only at designated areas.
P. Boats shall be tied up at
State boat ramp facilities for no longer than thirty (30) minutes.
Q. 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.
1.13 Camping for All Camping Areas
(See Camping for Specific Areas, § 1.14 of this Part)
A. 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.
B. Camping is allowed only in
designated areas with official written permission from individual
park facility.
C. 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 provide 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 RIDEM and all other applicable laws. Only those members listed
shall use the campsites. Only one (1) 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.
D. 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.
E. No pets are allowed in
camping areas, unless with written permission, or as may be allowed
in accordance with the provisions of current State Laws.
F. 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.
G. 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 (7) day minimum break prior to any re-occupancy. Permit
renewals are limited to three (3) within the two (2) week maximum
period and must be obtained prior to 8:30 AM on the date of permit
expiration. Charlestown Breachway and Ninigret Conservation Area are
exempted from this Rule.
H. 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.
I. Public nudity is
prohibited. No person shall disrobe other than in tents, campers or
other properly designated structures.
1.14 Camping for Specific Areas
A. Camping for specific
Management Areas
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.
2. Camping permits run from
12:00 PM on date of permit to 11:00 AM at end of camping period,
except for the George Washington campground where camping permits run
from 2:00 PM on the date of issue to 11:00 AM at the end of the
camping period.
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.
4. No person may occupy
Reynolds 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 and a fee of three dollars ($3.00) per night, per site shall
be paid to the Rhode Island State Treasurer and mailed to: Arcadia
Headquarters 260 Arcadia Road, Hope Valley, RI 02832.
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.
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.
7. Visitors are prohibited
from backpack areas and shelters, unless with official written
permission from respective Forestry Headquarters.
8. Campsites must be occupied
each night of the camping period in backpack and shelter areas and
Reynolds Horsemen’s Area.
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.
B. Camping for specific parks
properties
1. No more than two (2) motor
vehicles shall be parked at each campsite.
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 the date of issuance.
Permits shall not be issued by phone at the campground.
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.
4. Reservations shall be
accepted for state campgrounds through the authorized campground
reservation system provider.
1.15 Dunes
Walking or crossing over the
dunes is permitted only in designated areas.
1.16 Fees
A. User Fees at State Beaches,
Parks, and Recreational Areas, Part 3
of this Subchapter, shall remain in effect and are incorporated
herein by reference.
B. For persons with
disabilities – No fee shall be charged to any person with a
disability in accordance with the provisions of State Law R.I. Gen.
Laws § 32-1-17. For the 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.
1.17 Firearms and Archery
Equipment
A. Possession of a firearm or
archery equipment is prohibited on Public Reservations, unless the
person is duly licensed to hunt, is engaged in authorized hunting
activity and is in possession of a firearm or archery equipment
authorized pursuant to the governing RIDEM hunting Regulations for
the specific hunting activity in which the person is engaged or
unless the person satisfies the requirements of any of the
subsections below.
B. Target shooting is
prohibited on Public Reservations except in designated areas (See
Target Range Regulations, § 1.33 of this Part).
C. Possession of a loaded
firearm, archery equipment having a nocked arrow or bolt, or firearm
with magazine or chamber from which all shells or cartridges have not
been removed, located in or on any vehicle or conveyance while in or
upon any part of a Public Reservation is prohibited unless possessed
by a law enforcement officer pursuant to § 1.17(D) of this Part.
D. Pursuant to R.I. Gen. Laws
§ 11-47-9.1, a law enforcement officer is authorized to possess
a loaded firearm, including a concealed firearm, while in or upon any
part of a Public Reservation except when engaged in authorized
hunting activities when possessing any firearm other than the
authorized firearm or archery equipment allowed pursuant to the
governing RIDEM hunting Regulation for the specific hunting activity
is prohibited.
E. A person is authorized to
possess blank guns for the purpose of dog training in designated
areas from January 1st to September 30th.
1.18 Fires
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.
1.19 Fireworks
The possession or use of all
classes of fireworks in any Public Reservation 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.
1.20 Food, Beverage, Vending
A. No person shall possess,
drink, sell or offer for sale any alcoholic beverages except as
follows:
1. Permission may be requested
from the Director of the RIDEM 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 in 2020 at
state beaches where the average annual attendance for the previous
three (3) years exceeds three hundred thousand (300,000) visitors.
Requests shall be submitted in writing to the Director, or his or 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 or her discretion and specified in the license.
The Director may impose additional restrictions which he or she deems
necessary.
2. No person shall offer for
sale, or attempt to sell any goods or services on any Public
Reservation governed by these Regulations without official written
permission from the Director of the RIDEM or his or her authorized
representative.
3. No person shall sell, offer
for sale, or attempt to sell any ticket, privilege, or license of
admission to an entertainment event, including, but not limited to,
any place of public amusement, arena, stadium, theatre, performance,
sport, exhibition, or athletic contest conducted in any part of a
Public Reservation governed by these Rules and Regulations.
4. Any person found to be in
violation of § 1.20(A)(3) of this Part at the discretion of the
Chief of the RIDEM Division of Law Enforcement or his or her designee
shall either be prosecuted for a violation of R.I. Gen. Laws §
5-22-26 or may be issued a citation pursuant to R.I. Gen. Laws
Chapter 8-8.2.
5. Any person against whom the
prosecution for a violation of R.I. Gen. Laws § 5-22-26 has been
instituted or who has been issued a citation pursuant to R.I. Gen.
Laws Chapter 8-8.2 for a violation of § 1.20(A)(3) of this Part,
shall be immediately removed from, and barred from re-entering, the
Public Reservation in which entertainment event is being conducted
for a period of one (1) year from the date of the person’s
removal from the Public Reservation.
1.21 Groups, Meetings,
Distribution of Printed Matter
A. 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.
B. Special Use Permit for the
Division of Parks and Recreation:
Organized groups utilizing
Public Reservations under the jurisdiction of the Division of Parks &
Recreation, must submit prior written request to and have official
written permission for a Special Use Permit from the Director or his
or her authorized representative. Permits are also needed for any
scientific, research, educational or volunteer activities regardless
of number of people participating. (See § 1.30 of this Part for
Special Event Permits for groups between seventy-five and one hundred
(75 and 150) people).
C. 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.
D. Special Use Permit for
Management Areas:
A Special Use permit is
required for groups either organized, or assembled through
advertisement or social media, of ten to seventy-five (10 to 75)
people at Public Reservations not under the jurisdiction of the
Division of Parks & Recreation. Permits are also needed for any
scientific, research, educational or volunteer activities regardless
of number of people participating. Special Use applications should be
sent to Arcadia Forestry Headquarters (260 Arcadia Rd, Hope Valley,
RI 02823).
1.22 Hours of Operation
A. 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 (See § 1.27(K) of this Part), or as provided
by official written permit issued by the Director or his or her
authorized representative, or as otherwise provided under regulations
promulgated in R.I. Gen. Laws § 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.
B. Emergency Operation Order
1. In the event of any
emergency that may pose an imminent threat or peril to the public
health, safety or welfare, the Director, pursuant to his or her
authority as set forth in R.I. Gen. Laws § 42-17.1-2(19), may
issue an Emergency Operation Order that provides for the closure or
limited operation of the State Parks, Beaches, Campgrounds, boat
ramps and Management Areas, and all the facilities listed in §§
1.38 and 1.39 of this Part as the Director deems appropriate in his
or her discretion. The Director may close all, or any designated
portion of, any State park, bike path, Campground, Beach or
Management Area and may limit operations of said areas to specified
hours at the Director's discretion.
2. The Director is authorized
to issue an Emergency Operation Order specifying the conditions of
the emergency closure or limited operations.
3. The Director is authorized
to rescind or modify an Emergency Operation Order at any time, either
during the emergency or after the emergency has subsided.
4. The Emergency Operation
Order shall be posted on the RIDEM website, which shall be deemed
sufficient notice.
5. Any violation of any
Emergency Operation Order issued by the Director shall be subject to
penalties as set forth in § 1.37 of this Part.
1.23 Hunting Regulations
A. The possession of a valid
Rhode Island hunting, or combination hunting and fishing license,
shall serve as a permit to hunt Public Reservations, including
Undeveloped State Parks where hunting is allowed, and Tidal Lands
pursuant to R.I. Gen. Laws Titles 20 and 18, and R.I. Gen. Laws §§
20-18-2 and 20-18-3.
B. A valid hunting license is
required for any State designated hunting season.
C. A permit to trap within a
Public Reservation may be obtained from the Division of Fish and
Wildlife.
D. The carrying of firearms
and archery equipment on Public Reservations at any time is
prohibited except as provided for in § 1.17 of this Part.
E. Individual hunters, when
pursuing small game, must check in, and out of State Management Area
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.
F. 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 Animals,
Including Horses and Dogs, § 1.8 of this Part).
G. No person shall engage in
any activity that interferes or interrupts lawful hunting on a
Management Area or Public Reservation.
H. 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 and
be visible in all directions. Examples that meet the orange
requirements are a hat that covers two hundred (200) square inches or
combination of hat and vest covering five hundred (500) square
inches. The following orange requirements apply:
1. Two hundred (200) square
inches by small game hunters during the small game season.
2. Two hundred (200) square
inches by fall turkey hunters while traveling.
3. Two hundred (200) square
inches by muzzleloader deer hunters during muzzleloading season.
4. Two hundred (200) square
inches by archers during muzzleloader deer season when heading
to/from an elevated stand.
5. Five hundred (500) square
inches by all hunters and other users (including archers) during
shotgun deer season.
6. Those hunters using pop-up
blinds during the firearms deer season must display two hundred (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.
7. Exempt from fluorescent
orange requirements are:
a. Waterfowl hunters hunting
from a boat or blind, over water or field, when done in conjunction
with decoys.
b. Archery deer hunters
(except during muzzleloader and shotgun deer season).
c. Hunters crow hunting over
decoys.
d. First segment dove hunters.
e. Not required in areas
limited to archery only by Regulation.
8. All users of State
Management Areas and designated Undeveloped State Parks not exempt
under § 1.23(H)(7) of this Part, 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. Five hundred
(500) square inches required for all hunters (including archers) and
other users during shotgun deer season.
I. A hunting license is
required when training dogs on wild game on State Management Areas,
except when participating in state-sanctioned field trails.
J. 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.
K. Dogs on State Management
Areas allowed only under the following rules:
1. No dogs are allowed to be
trained, run, or exercised or be permitted to run at large on State
Management Areas from March 15th to August 15th, inclusive, without
written permission of the State Land Management Council, except as
otherwise provided in these Regulations.
2. Walking of dogs on a leash
of not more than twenty-five feet (25’) in length is permitted
on roads and trails only.
3. All dogs being utilized in
hunting or training activities must wear a collar bearing the name
and address of the owner and the handler must hold in possession a
valid dog license or tag but it does not need to be on the dog.
L. Dog Training Areas: Dog
training shall be allowed on designated areas only, between January
1st and September 30th. During this period, dogs may run freely
provided they are under the command of the trainer by voice, training
collar, or check cord.
1. Areas designated for
training dogs are: the Black Farm Management Area; the Nicholas Farm
Management Area north of the Trestle Trail; and the Arcadia Midway
Trial 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.
2. Training hours shall be
sunrise to sunset.
3. All persons using areas for
dog training shall possess a valid hunting license.
4. All dogs using areas shall
be licensed and have proof of rabies vaccinations and all dogs being
utilized in hunting or training activities must wear a collar bearing
the name and address of the owner and handler must possess a valid
dog license tag.
5. Training with live birds is
permitted provided the bird is released unharmed.
6. Shooting of live birds for
training purposes is prohibited.
7. Sanctioned field trial
events may be held at the following locations by requesting a Special
Use Permit application from the State Lands Management Council:
Arcadia, Carolina, Durfee Hill Marsh, and Burlingame (Durfee) Pond,
and Nicholas Farm.
M. John L. Curran State Park
1. All hunting shall be within
the inner boundaries of the buffer zones marked as posted by the
RIDEM.
2. Only shotguns and archery
equipment may be possessed or used while hunting.
3. The hunting of and/or
possession of Mourning Dove or Wild Pigeons (Rock Dove) is
prohibited.
N. Ninigret Conservation
Area/East Beach
Designated as an Undeveloped
State Park and is open for small game and archery deer hunting only.
O. Simmons Mill Pond
Management Area
Deer hunting using archery,
muzzleloader and shotgun is permitted while hunting within the
Simmons Mill Pond Management Area in Little Compton. Sunday hunting
is allowed.
P. Hillsdale Management Area
Hunting is prohibited.
1.24 Miscellaneous Regulations
A. The playing of golf or the
driving of golf balls is permitted only in designated areas at
designated times.
B. Bicycles, mountain bikes,
and horses shall only be used on designated trails and roads for said
use.
C. 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.
D. Closure of Management Areas
and/or roads and trails may occur if environmental conditions
warrant.
E. Washing of vehicles,
bicycles, or animals is prohibited in any natural body of water.
F. The feeding of all
wildlife, migratory waterfowl, or any feral animal is prohibited
within any Public Reservation.
G. There shall be no traveling
by vehicles in streams, rivers or bodies of water except to cross at
designated crossings (trails, roads).
H. Wildlife Food Plots may
only be entered by walkers, hikers, hunters, and for the purpose of
training dogs. Entering Food Plots is prohibited between June 1st and
August 15th, except for the purpose of training dogs in designated
areas.
I. 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 an
approved waiver of liability prior to commencement of rock-climbing
activity. For organized group of any size, a group must submit a
Special Use Application to the Division of Parks & Recreation and
obtain prior written approval of said Application. In addition, each
member of the group of participants must sign 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 dollars ($1,000,000.00) naming the State of
Rhode Island as an additional insured at the time of the submittal of
its Special Use Application.
J. All 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. Five hundred (500) square inches of solid daylight
fluorescent orange is required to be worn by all hunters and other
users (including archers during shotgun deer season). Exemptions from
these requirements are listed in § 1.23(H)(7) of this Part.
K. Tampering with, breaching
or manipulating fencing at Public Reservations is prohibited.
L. Per the Rules and
Regulations Governing Collector’s Permits, Part 60-00-4
of this Title, a collector’s permit is required for the
collecting, taking, handling, and or possession of any species of
wild animal for purposes of scientific study or management, carrying,
out scientific experiments, or cultivation projects. A Special Use
Permit is required for activities permitted by a Scientific
Collector's Permit that take place or occur on Public Reservations.
1.25 Mooring
A. No person shall moor, dock
or berth a vessel, boat, or any other object overnight except in
designated mooring, docking, or berthing areas.
B. 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 § 1.32 of this Part, Swimming and
Bathing).
1.26 Motorcycle Use in Arcadia
Management Area
A. Motorcycle use is only
allowed within designated areas of Arcadia Management Area subject to
conditions of §§ 1.27(B) through (F) of this Part. 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 correction by the RIDEM 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).
B. Only street-legal
registered motorcycles operated by riders who hold a valid motorcycle
operator’s license may use the area. Operators must also
maintain liability insurance according to Rhode Island State Laws.
C. 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.
D. No new motorcycle trails
shall be cut, marked, or created within the Arcadia Management Area.
E. Trails may be periodically
closed by RIDEM 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 1:00 PM during May.
F. The speed limit on the
trail designated for motorcycle use shall be twenty-five (25) miles
per hour or as posted.
G. 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 RIDEM. 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 RIDEM on an annual basis to determine if changes are
necessary in order to protect the natural resources of the Arcadia
Management Area.
1.27 Motor Vehicles
A. The traffic laws of the
State of Rhode Island are fully applicable unless these Regulations
provide otherwise.
B. All motor vehicles must be
legally street registered and operated by a licensed driver.
C. 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 with official written permission.
D. No person shall park a
vehicle so as to block any road, gate 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.
E. The speed limit is
twenty-five (25) miles per hour unless otherwise posted.
F. 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.
G. Airborne conveyances such
as balloons, gliders, engine-powered airplanes unmanned aircraft
systems, and ultra-lights shall not be operated without official
written permission from the Individual Park Facility Manager.
H. Off-Road recreational
vehicles shall be legally street registered and used in accordance
with law. Their use shall be limited to designated areas or trails at
designated times.
I. No person shall wash,
polish, clean, change oil, or repair any motor vehicle or motorcycle
in a Public Reservation.
J. Snowmobile Operation –
General snowmobiles shall be allowed at designated areas and at times
designated for those areas.
1. Snowmobiles must operate
within the posted speed limit for that area.
2. Operators shall grant the
right-of-way to all pedestrian, horses and vehicular traffic when
operating and crossing roads or trails.
3. Snowmobiles shall not
operate in a manner intended to or reasonably be expected to harass,
drive or pursue any wildlife.
4. In addition to firearm
restrictions in R.I. Gen. Laws Chapter 31-3.2, when carrying archery
equipment while operating a snowmobile, all arrows shall not be
nocked and shall be secured to the bow or in a quiver or other
container.
K. Snowmobile
Operation-Management Area
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.
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.
3. During the established
shotgun deer season, snowmobiling is not permitted in Management
Areas.
L. Snowmobiles Operation Parks
Hours of operation are
sunrise to sunset in Burlingame, Colt, Lincoln Woods and Snake Den.
(See Snowmobiles, R.I. Gen. Laws Chapter 31-3.2).
M. 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, and which were submitted and recodified in
2017 (see Vehicle Traffic Pattern for Colt State Park, Part 5
of this Subchapter), shall remain in force and are incorporated
herein by reference.
N. The Les Pawson Loop in
Lincoln Woods, shall have a one-way counter-clockwise traffic pattern
with two (2) 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.
O. 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.
1.28 Picnicking and Playing Field
Permits
A. 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.
B. When conflicts arise in
permit applications for playing field league use, the following
priorities shall apply:
1. Every consideration shall
be given by the Division of Parks & Recreation to provide
opportunities, consistent with public safety, for such conflicting
recreational uses by time or space zoning or by other controls and
devices.
2. Prior playing field league
users will receive first consideration for traditional times and
areas.
3. Children's playing leagues
will receive priority over adult leagues and use shall be established
pursuant to §§ 1.28(B)(1) and (2) above.
C. 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.
1.29 Refunds
No refunds are allowed unless
authorized by the Director or designee.
1.30 Special Events
A. Arcadia, Big River, Diamond
Hill and George Washington Management Areas
1. Special Event Permits are
required for any group of seventy-five (75) participants or more and
shall not exceed a total of one hundred fifty (150) participants. No
more than four (4) Special Event Permits shall be issued during the
period designated in § 1.30(A)(2) of this Part.
2. Permits will be issued
during the period of July 1st through September 30th only.
3. Exemptions from the
limitation on the maximum participants and/or time of year
restrictions may be granted by the RIDEM for educational workshops,
use of picnic/beach areas, and use of RIDEM boat launching ramps for
fishing tournaments.
4. Applications to hold a
Special Event must be submitted to State Lands Management Council for
review and approval to Arcadia Forestry Headquarters (260 Arcadia Rd,
Hope Valley, RI 02823). Applications must be submitted from January
1st to the last day of February of the year that the event will take
place. Applications will be reviewed by RIDEM 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, remaining permits will be issued on a first-come,
first-served basis. No more than two (2) Special Event Permits will
be issued per year per individual recreation use type to allow fair
access to other user groups.
5. RIDEM, 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 RIDEM’s responsibility to provide for
availability to the public for multiple use of the area.
6. RIDEM 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.
7. Special Event sponsors
shall be responsible for the following in running an event:
a. Paying for adequate RIDEM
Law Enforcement personnel during events.
b. 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.
c. Notifying State and local
police, fire, and rescue of the event.
d. All event sponsors shall
provide a liability insurance policy of one million dollars
($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 RIDEM in an amount RIDEM determines to be necessary and
appropriate to reimburse RIDEM 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 RIDEM to have resulted from the permitted
event over and above amount of the bond.
e. All participants must sign
a liability waiver and release for the State.
f. Event sponsors shall be
responsible for repairing any damage to the Management Area caused by
the event in the time designated in the permit.
g. Event sponsors are
responsible for removing all signs, markers, and trash from the
Management Area caused by the event within seven (7) days of its
conclusion.
h. Event sponsors shall
provide to RIDEM an estimation of the number of spectators that can
be expected for an event.
i. RIDEM reserves the right to
include additional special conditions on any permitted event if
conditions so warrant.
j. These Regulations do not
apply to the use of areas under the jurisdiction of the RIDEM’s
Division of Parks & Recreation.
1.31 State Park Policies
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 & Recreation. Such written policies shall be kept on file
at the Division of Parks & Recreation headquarters.
1.32 Swimming, Bathing, Floating
A. No person shall bathe or
swim except in areas specifically designated for such purposes and
only during posted or permitted times.
1. Within the confines of a
protected beach area there shall be no ball playing, frisbees, kite
flying, swimming during electrical storms or when conditions are
considered to be unsafe, animals allowed, or use of snorkels,
facemasks, or scuba diving gear.
2. Boogie boards may only be
used during designated times and in designated areas approved by
Beach Managers or Lifeguard Supervisors.
B. 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:
1. All designated bathing
areas, except that a Coast Guard Approved Personal 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.
2. Carolina Trout Pond,
Richmond
3. Frosty Hollow Pond, Exeter
4. Little Round Top Pond,
Burrillville
5. A.L. Mowry Pond, Smithfield
1.33 Target Range Regulations
A. Gun Handling Requirements:
1. While using the target
range, all users shall:
a. 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.
b. Keep his/her finger off the
trigger until ready to shoot.
c. Keep the action open and
the firearm unloaded until ready to shoot. For range purposes,
muzzleloader firearms are considered unloaded when free of powder,
projectile, and primer.
d Know his/her target and what
is beyond.
e. Know how to safely operate
his/her firearm.
f. Use only the correct
ammunition for his/her firearm.
g. Not handle firearms or
stand at the firing line where firearms are present while others are
down range or during any “cease fire” period.
h. 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.”
i. In case of misfire or hang
fire, point his/her firearm down range until it can be safely
cleared.
j. Perform aimed fire only. No
uncontrolled rapid fire, shooting from the hip, “combat style”
shooting, or drawing from a holster.
k. Never use alcohol or drugs
before or while shooting.
l. 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.
m. Control his/her firearms
and ammunition to prevent access by unauthorized persons.
B. General Range Regulations –
At all times, while present on the target range, all individuals
shall observe the following:
1. No cell phones or
electronic devices not related to shooting are allowed on the firing
line.
2. Dress properly. No
flip-flops, sandals or open toed shoes. No sleeveless shirts, tank
tops, bikini tops, low cut blouses or shirtless.
3. Know and obey all range
regulations and commands.
4. Know where others are at
all times and be aware of his/her surroundings.
5. No smoking on, or within
twenty feet (20’) of the firing line.
6. Climbing on berms and
backstop is prohibited.
7. Mining of lead from berms
and backstop is prohibited.
8. Firing at targets on the
ground, or placing targets on the berms or backstop is prohibited.
9. Firing at objects other
than prescribed targets is prohibited.
10. No incendiary (tracer
type) ammunition or targets are allowed.
11. Guests are not allowed on
the firing line.
12. Please limit range time to
one (1) hour when others are waiting to shoot.
13. The Wildlife Management
Area requirement of solid daylight fluorescent orange is not required
of Rifle/Pistol Range users.
C. Regulations for
Rifle/Pistol Range
1. The discharge of any
firearm other than a handgun, shotgun, rim fire rifle, muzzleloader
rifle, or air gun is prohibited on the fifty (50) yard rifle/pistol
range. The Division of Fish and Wildlife reserves the right to allow
or disallow additional types of firearms as deemed appropriate to
facility modifications and/or use.
2. The use of shot ammunition
on the pistol/rifle range is limited to patterning for seasonal
hunting. Appropriate shot and patterning targets required.
3. No firing from positions
forward of the designated firing line.
4. No firing from positions
other than a designated shooting lane.
5. Use only the provided
target stand designated for your shooting lane. No cross firing to
other shooting lanes.
6. Use paper targets only no
larger than fifteen inches by twenty inches (15” by 20”).
All other targets are prohibited. Human silhouette targets and
targets depicting people are not allowed.
D. Regulations for Clay Target
Range
1. The discharge of any
firearm other than a shotgun is prohibited on the clay target range.
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.
3. Clay pigeons are the only
allowable target on the shotgun range.
4. Shoot from designated
shooting stations only.
5. Guns are to be unloaded,
actions open, when not standing in a designated shooting station.
6. Load no more than two (2)
shells at a time.
7. Only two (2) shooters may
simultaneously utilize the shotgun range.
8. At no time shall shots be
fired, or clay targets launched toward the parking area or rifle
range.
E. Administrative Rules
1. All users must obtain a
range permit prior to using the target range. The Rhode Island
Division of Fish and Wildlife reserves the right to limit the number
of permits issued. Target Range Permits are non-transferable.
2. To apply for a range
permit, all applicants eighteen (18) years of age or older must:
a. Obtain an application from
the Rhode Island Division of Fish and 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 .
b. Complete the application
form and have his/her signature notarized.
c. Attach a copy of your
driver’s license or other government issued picture ID along
with one (1) of the following certifications:
(1) State-issued Hunter
Education Card
(2) Valid, state-issued,
firearms hunting license
(3) RIDEM Pistol/Revolver
Certification Card (Blue Card)
(4) Valid, Rhode Island
Department of Attorney General Pistol Permit
(5) Active Military I.D.
(6) Equivalent Certification
as determined by the Rhode Island Division of Fish and Wildlife.
d. Mail the completed
application package along with a LEGAL SIZE, self-addressed stamped
envelope to: Range Permit, Rhode Island Division of Fish and
Wildlife, 1 B Camp E-Hun-Tee Place, Exeter, RI 02822.
e. 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 eighteen (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.
f. 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.
3. All minors (under eighteen
(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.
4. All individuals must wear
their Range Permit so it is visible to other users and to supervisory
personnel and present picture ID to the Range Safety Officer when
signing in. The permit will be retained by the Range Safety Officer
for the duration of the visit and will be returned when signing out.
The Range Safety Officer has the authority to retain the permit of
any individual found to be in violation of Target Range Regulations.
The Range Permit must be presented, upon request, to any authorized
person.
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.
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.
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.
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.
9. Parking is allowed in
designated parking area only.
10. Individuals are
responsible to dispose of all trash generated, including shell
casings, prior to leaving the range.
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.
F. Administrative
Suspension/Revocation of Permit:
1. With the understanding that
public safety is a primary goal of the Division of Fish and Wildlife;
the use of the Great Swamp Range is a privilege extended only to
those individuals who demonstrate the knowledge and skills to safely
use a firearm in public. Due to potential risk associated with the
public use of firearms in a manner other than as dictated in these
Regulations, the Range Safety Officer has the authority to
immediately seize the range permit of any individual who demonstrates
said unsafe behavior. The Range Safety Officer has the discretion to
impose a temporary suspension of shooting privileges and/or repeat of
the Range Safety Briefing. In the event of a severe or repeat
infractions, shooting privileges may be permanently revoked.
2. Any person aggrieved by a
suspension decision pursuant to § 1.33 of this Part, permanent
revocation of a range permit, or determination to suspend or revoke a
range permit, may appeal the decision in accordance with the
provisions of the Administrative Procedures Act, R.I. Gen. Laws
Chapters 42-35 and the Administrative Adjudication for Environmental
Matters Act R.I. Gen. Laws Chapter 42-17.
G. Administrative Penalties:
1. Any person who is found,
pursuant to the authority of R.I. Gen. Laws § 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 ($100.00).
2. Any person who is found,
pursuant to the authority of R.I. Gen. Laws Chapter 42-17.10 to have
used or to have attempted to use the target range during the period
of a suspension/revocation of his or her range permit pursuant to §
1.33(F) of this Part, shall be assessed an administrative penalty in
the amount of one hundred dollars ($ $100.00).
3. Any person aggrieved by a
final decision pursuant to § 1.33(G) of this Part, may appeal
the decision in accordance with the provisions of the Administrative
Procedures Act, R.I. Gen. Laws Chapters 42-35 and the Administrative
Adjudication for Environmental Matters Act, R.I. Gen. Laws 42-17.10.
1.34 Trash and Litter
A. No person shall bring into
any Public Reservation any trash, ashes, garbage or any other
material for the purpose of disposal.
B. All trash and waste
material shall be deposited in receptacles provided for that purpose
and shall not be left on the grounds or waters.
C. In areas designated as
carry in/carry out, all trash must be carried out of the area for
proper disposal.
1.35 Trees, Shrubs, Buildings
A. 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.
B. No person(s) shall create
or mark trails without official written permission in any Public
Reservation.
1.36 Area Specific Regulations
A. Bay Islands:
1. Camping in the Bay Islands
is prohibited.
2. From the period April 1st
through August 15th annually the following areas are closed to entry:
Dyer Island, Hope Island and Gould Island. During this time period,
no person is allowed to enter these areas without official written
permission from the Director. During this time period, disturbing or
molesting any nesting birds at these areas is prohibited.
3. All cats, dogs, and other
domestic animals are prohibited at all times at Dutch Island, Dyer
Island, Gould Island, Hope Island, and Patience Island; except that
hunting dogs may be used at Hope Island while hunting small game or
migratory birds only during the open seasons set by the Department,
and hunting dogs may be used at Patience Island while hunting
migratory birds only during the open seasons set by the Department.
B. Beavertail State Park:
The RIDEM Rules and
Regulations for the Development and Operation of Beavertail State
Park, Jamestown, Rhode Island, (Part 4
of this Subchapter) which were received by the Office of the
Secretary of State on August 15, 1980, and which were submitted and
recodified in 2017, shall remain in force and are incorporated herein
by reference.
C. Charlestown Breachway:
1. Camping permits shall be
issued at the Charlestown Breachway on a "first-come,
first-served” 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.
2. No camping units with any
type of canvas shall be allowed in the day use or camping areas.
3. No camping shall be allowed
in the day use lot.
4. At Charlestown Breachway
the maximum period of permit is seven (7) days. There shall be a four
(4) day minimum break prior to any re-occupancy.
5. All visitors to the camping
area will pay the daily parking rate and park in the day use parking
lot.
6. Only one (1) additional
non-towed vehicle is allowed to be parked in the camping area per
site. Vehicle pass is required.
D. Campground Reservations:
Reservations shall be
accepted for State camping areas in accordance with the procedures
and policies established by the RIDEM, and amended as necessary, for
the proper administration of a campground reservation system and with
a State authorized campground reservation system provider.
E. Salty Brine State Beach:
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.
F. Ninigret Conservation
Area/East Beach:
1. No more than thirty (30)
day use barrier beach vehicles, RIDEM inspected, are permitted beyond
the beach parking lot at any one time.
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 RIDEM
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.
3. At the end of a consecutive
seventy-two (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.
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.
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.
6. All persons and vehicles
must vacate the designated beach parking area by sunset. Parking is
prohibited in the beach parking area before sunrise.
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.
G. Purgatory Chasm:
1. Parking is prohibited from
sunset to sunrise the following day.
2. Parking in excess of thirty
(30) minutes is prohibited.
H. Salter Grove:
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.
I. Meshanticut Grove:
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.
J. Hatcheries:
All State Fish Hatcheries are
closed to public use.
K. Hillsdale (De Coppet):
Hunting, horseback riding and
cycling are prohibited.
L. Dutch Island:
The entry upon Dutch Island
is prohibited – no person is allowed to enter onto Dutch Island
without official written permission from the Director.
1.37 Penalties for Violation
A. Any person found to have
violated any Rule and/or Regulation by the RIDEM, shall be subject to
a fine not to exceed one hundred dollars ($100.00) for each
violation, except § 1.33 of this Part, which is governed by §§
1.33(F)(2) and (G) of this Part, and shall be subject to the issuance
of a summons and complaint required by the rules and procedures
promulgated by the Chief Judge of the District Court governing the
Rhode Island Traffic Tribunal in order to institute proceedings
before that Tribunal.
B. All persons failing to pay
or evade payment of any user or admission fee shall be subject to the
penalty provision of R.I. Gen. Laws § 32-20-4, as amended. Any
persons found to have violated any of these Rules and Regulations
shall be subject to a fine not to exceed one hundred dollars
($100.00).
C. No person shall refuse or
neglect to obey the direction of any environmental police officer or
forest ranger or any other authorized representative of the RIDEM.
1.38 Appendix 1 – 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**
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*
Rocky
Point
Trestle
Trail Bike Path
Washington
Grove*
*
Undeveloped State Park, hunting permitted according to § 1.23
of this Part and current Hunting Regulations and Abstract.
**
Licensed waterfowl hunters are permitted to access Mill Gut via
Colt State Park with unloaded and cased firearms.
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
1.39 Appendix 2 – Management
Areas
Arcadia
Bay
Islands
Black
Hut
Black
Farm
Big
River
Buck
Hill
Burlingame
Carolina
Diamond
Hill
Durfee
Hill
Dutch
Island
Dyer
Island
Eight
Rod
Galilee
Bird Sanctuary
George
Washington
Gould
Island
Grass
Pond Preserve
Great
Swamp
Grills
Preserve
Hillsdale
Hope
Island
Killingly
Pond
Newton
Swamp
Nicholas
Farm
Patience
Island
Prudence
Island
Rockville
Round
Top
Sapowet
Marsh
Simmons
Mill
South
Shore
Succotash
Marsh
Tillinghast
Wickaboxet
Woody
Hill
Note:
See Hunting & Trapping Abstract for restrictions