R.I. Gen. Laws § 23-27.3-114.7: Approval in part.

When an application and all documents necessary for the issuance of a permit to erect or add to a building or other structure have been filed, as required in § 23-27.3-113.5, and prior to the issuance of the permit, the building official shall issue a special permit for the erection of the foundation of a building or structure upon the request of the owner, provided satisfactory documentation is provided the building official for that work. The holder of the special permit may proceed at his or her own risk without assurance that a permit for the entire structure will be granted.