R.I. Gen. Laws § 23-27.3-105.1: Continuation of existing use.

The legal use and occupancy of any structure existing on July 1, 1977, or for which it had been heretofore approved, may be continued without change, except as may be specifically covered in this code or as may be deemed necessary by the building official for the general health, safety, and welfare of the occupants and the public. This section shall in no way conflict with local zoning ordinances and local zoning classifications.