R.I. Gen. Laws § 11-44-32: Clearance of public rights of way.

(a) Every person, firm, or corporation who is the owner of land abutting a public sidewalk shall keep the sidewalk free of any shrubs or other debris under the control of the owner. The owner shall also be required to see that the branches of any tree under his or her control which overhang a public sidewalk are at least seven (7) feet above the sidewalk.

(b) Any person, firm, or corporation violating the provisions of this section shall, upon adjudication be subject to a civil penalty of not more than five hundred dollars ($500).