R.I. Gen. Laws § 39-19-7: Placing of poles and cables.

(a) Every CATV company that receives a certificate from the administrator shall have the right to erect poles or posts or to construct any conduit or other facility or maintain cables, wires, or fixtures upon, under, or over any state or municipal highway or public place for the purpose of operating a CATV service, provided that a permit therefor has first been obtained from the director of transportation or the proper official of the city or town having jurisdiction over the roads or public places, which permission the officials are authorized to give.

(b) All equipment, fixtures, and facilities shall be so placed or constructed as not to unreasonably inconvenience travel on the highway or use thereof by public utilities or other persons or companies having rights therein.