Prohibited Places:
Where You Cannot Carry

Holding a valid LCCW does not grant unrestricted authority to carry a firearm everywhere in Rhode Island. Several statutory provisions and administrative regulations designate specific locations where firearms are prohibited, even for licensed carriers.^[1]

Schools and School Grounds

RIGL 11-47-60 makes it a felony to possess a firearm on the grounds of any public or private elementary or secondary school. The statute defines school grounds to cover school property, portions of any building, stadium, or other structure on school grounds being used for an activity sponsored by or through a school, and school-provided transportation. The prohibition applies regardless of whether the person holds a valid LCCW. Violation is punishable by imprisonment for not less than one year and not more than five years, or by a fine of not less than $500 nor more than $5,000. The penalty is disjunctive, so a court that imposes imprisonment must impose at least one year, but a fine-only sentence is also available. General prohibited-place violations under RIGL 11-47-26 carry only a five-year maximum with no stated minimum. Under subsection (b), exemptions exist for persons exempt under RIGL 11-47-9, peace officers, retired law enforcement officers permitted under RIGL 11-47-18(b) or 18 U.S.C. 926B and 926C, individuals providing security services to a school under contract, and officially recognized and sanctioned activities such as firearm instruction or safety courses, government-sponsored military programs such as ROTC, interscholastic shooting or marksmanship events, military history and firearms collection courses, and the use of blank guns in theatrical or athletic events. There is no exception based on authorization from a school principal or school committee. Under subsection (c), the section does not apply to colleges, universities, or junior colleges. Under subsection (d), the section does not apply to a firearm that is not loaded and is in a locked container or a locked rack in a motor vehicle. Remaining in the vehicle or keeping the firearm out of sight does not satisfy this exception.^[1]

State and National Parks and Forests

Firearms are generally prohibited in Rhode Island state parks, state beaches, and state management areas under Department of Environmental Management administrative rules. Federal facilities within Rhode Island, including national wildlife refuges, follow federal firearms regulations. Hunting is permitted in designated areas during designated seasons under DEM rules, but carry of firearms outside of lawful hunting activity is restricted in these locations.

Airports and Federal Facilities

Federal law prohibits firearms in the sterile area of airports (beyond the TSA security checkpoint) and in federal buildings. T.F. Green International Airport in Warwick follows TSA regulations. Firearms may be transported through the airport in checked luggage in compliance with TSA rules, but may not be carried on one's person or in carry-on baggage. Other federal facilities in Rhode Island, including courthouses and post offices, prohibit firearms under 18 U.S.C. 930.

While Under the Influence

RIGL 11-47-52 prohibits carrying a firearm while under the influence of intoxicating liquor or drugs. This prohibition applies to all persons, including LCCW holders. The statute does not define a specific blood alcohol threshold; instead, it uses the general "under the influence" standard. Section 11-47-52 sets no penalty of its own, so the chapter default under RIGL 11-47-26 applies. Violation is a felony punishable by a fine of up to $1,000, imprisonment for up to five years, or both. This provision is discussed in detail in a separate article on carrying while intoxicated.^[2]

Private Property

Private property owners in Rhode Island have the right to prohibit firearms on their premises. A business, restaurant, or other private establishment may post signage or verbally communicate that firearms are not permitted. While Rhode Island does not have a specific "force of law" signage statute (unlike some states where particular sign specifications carry criminal penalties), entering or remaining on private property after being informed that firearms are prohibited may constitute trespass. LCCW holders should respect the wishes of private property owners and be prepared to secure their firearm in a vehicle or leave the premises.

Pending: Wolford v. Lopez (U.S. Supreme Court)

Wolford v. Lopez is a Hawaii case challenging Hawaii's concealed carry restrictions under HRS §134-D, argued before the U.S. Supreme Court on January 20, 2026. A decision is expected by the end of the Court's term in June or July 2026. Although the case arises under Hawaii law, the Court's ruling will set a national standard for how states may designate "sensitive places" where carry is prohibited. If the Court adopts a narrow definition of permissible sensitive-place restrictions, some of Rhode Island's prohibited-place provisions — particularly those covering parks, beaches, and other publicly accessible areas — could face legal challenge. This page will be updated when the decision is issued.^[3]