The bill amends Section 44-5-25.1 of the General Laws to establish a new definition for "houseboats," which are now defined as motorized or non-motorized vessels constructed on a float, raft, or barge with low freeboard, little or no foredeck or cockpit, that are used as a place of habitation and/or multi-purpose accommodation, whether registered or unregistered. The previous definition, which described houseboats as watercraft or structures designed for habitation, has been deleted.

The bill also grants specific towns, including Bristol, South Kingstown, North Kingstown, Tiverton, Newport, Little Compton, Narragansett, Jamestown, and New Shoreham, the authority to enact ordinances for the management of public waters and harbors, including regulations for houseboats as defined in the new language. Additionally, it empowers town councils of Charlestown, Middletown, Portsmouth, East Greenwich, Cranston, Warren, and Westerly to appoint harbormasters and establish ordinances for the enforcement of regulations related to vessel management, moorings, and public water activities.

The councils can impose penalties for violations, not exceeding $100 or ten days of imprisonment, and recover costs associated with the removal of wrecks or abandoned boats. The new definition of "houseboat" clarifies that it includes both motorized and non-motorized vessels used for habitation, with transportation being a secondary use. Furthermore, the bill includes provisions that prohibit living on a houseboat in coastal ponds. These changes aim to enhance local governance over water activities and clarify regulations surrounding houseboats. The act would take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
260: 44-5-25.1, 46-22-9.1