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Building and Zoning Office
E-Permitting Through OpenGov (formerly Viewpoint)
E-permitting is now available online in Barrington through Rhode Island's state web-based system OpenGov. Applicants can apply for permits, including Building, Electrical, Mechanical, Plumbing, Solar, Demolition, Chicken and Hen, file a Citizens Complaint, and more. Please allow up to 15 business days for permit approval and issuance.
Frequently asked information about OpenGov:
- Apply for a permit through the OpenGov website - the office does not offer paper copies.
- Communications regarding your permit, including approvals, payment, inspections, will be sent to the email provided to file the permit application.
- Receive status emails and notifications from the start through final inspections.
- Paper applications are not accepted by the Building and Zoning Office. Hardcopy materials for the above permits will not be accepted by the Building Office and must be uploaded directly to OpenGov by the applicant. If applicable, deliver a copy of the building plans to the Fire Chief. If you need technical assistance, please contact the office.
- When do I need a permit?
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With the exception of paint, wallcoverings, flooring and fencing, most projects require a permit. Please check in with the office to confirm before beginning your project.
- Who can pull a permit?
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Homeowners can do work on their own house and pull their own permit, though they must sign an affidavit to take responsibility for work to be performed, including inspections. For contractors, they must be licensed in Rhode Island.
- How do I find the setback information for my property?
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1) Visit the Barrington Main Street GIS website.
2) Using the search bar in the top right corner to type in the address.
3) Once the map loads, click on "Layers" on the left-hand side of the screen.
4) Check "Zoning" on the Layers list, and that will tell you what zone the property is in.
5) Use the dimensions regulations table (PDF) to determine the setbacks.
- How do I know if my property is in a flood zone?
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1) Visit the Barrington Main Street GIS website.
2) Using the search bar in the top right corner to type in the address.
3) Once the map loads, click on "Layers" on the left-hand side of the screen.
4) Check "Flood Zones Revised" on the Layers list, and you will see a blue layer appear if your property is in a flood zone.
- How do I upload an attachment (such as a site plan) to the OpenGov permit portal?
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PLEASE NOTE: Uploading an attachment to OpenGov works best on a desktop computer.
The attached PDF contains step-by-step instructions for uploading any files you may have to the "Attachments" section on the permit portal. Please note that the office does not accept paper copies. Uploading materials is the responsibility of the applicant.
- Frequently Requested Zoning Ordinances
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Setbacks - Dimensions Regulations Table (PDF)
Zoning Use Table - 185-8
Swimming Pool Requirements - 185-15
Fences - 185-20
At any point, use the "search" feature at the top of the page to look up a specific topic.
Inspections
All permits require inspection. Inspections can be scheduled by:
- Requesting an inspection using Viewpoint's inspection request feature
- Texting in your request to 401-768-0417
- Call the Building and Zoning Office
Please be advised that you must schedule an inspection at least a day in advance. Day-of requests may not be available.