Rhode Island Septic & Well Water Rules
Rhode Island's Department of Environmental Management (DEM) regulates onsite wastewater treatment systems (OWTS) and enforces the Rhode Island Cesspool Act.
This is a short state page. It covers only the facts we've verified from official sources so far.
Cesspools at sale
- Under R.I. Gen. Laws § 23-19.15-12, if a building served by a cesspool is sold or transferred, the cesspool must be taken out of service and replaced with an approved OWTS, or the building connected to sewer, within 12 months of the transfer.
Frequently asked questions
What happens to a cesspool when a Rhode Island home is sold?
It must be replaced with an approved septic system or connected to sewer within 12 months of the sale.
Sources
Last checked: October 21, 2026
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