This bill amends various sections of the General Laws in Chapter 46-4, titled "Harbors and Harbor Lines," to empower the town councils of Bristol, South Kingstown, North Kingstown, Tiverton, Newport, Little Compton, Narragansett, Jamestown, New Shoreham, and Charlestown. The councils are authorized to enact ordinances for the enforcement and supervision of rules governing public waters and harbors, including the regulation of vessel management, mooring assignments, and the collection of mooring fees. They can impose penalties for violations, with fines not exceeding $100 or imprisonment for up to ten days for any single offense.

The bill introduces a new definition of "houseboat," replacing the previous language that referred to them as "not self-propelled." The new definition clarifies that "houseboat" includes both motorized and non-motorized vessels constructed on a float, raft, or barge with low freeboard, little or no foredeck or cockpit, used as a place of habitation and/or multi-purpose accommodation, which may be registered or unregistered. If used as a means of transportation, this use is secondary. "Houseboat" also includes platforms, and waterborne hotels and restaurants.

Additionally, the bill extends similar powers to the town councils of Charlestown, Middletown, Portsmouth, East Greenwich, Cranston, Warren, and Westerly, allowing them to appoint harbormasters and create ordinances for public waters management. The bill also prohibits living on a houseboat in coastal ponds, thereby reinforcing the regulatory framework for these vessels. The act will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
5089: 46-22-9.1