R.I. Gen. Laws § 23-96-1: Prohibited practices.

(a) No person or entity shall intentionally release, intentionally organize the release of, or otherwise intentionally cause the simultaneous release of ten (10) or more balloons inflated with a gas that is lighter than air, except for:

(1) A balloon released for scientific or meteorological purposes, on behalf of a governmental agency or pursuant to a governmental contract;

(2) A hot air balloon that is recovered after launching; or

(3) A balloon that is released and remains indoors.