Buying or selling a waterfront home in Warwick or East Greenwich and wondering what happens to your boat? You’re not alone. Slips, moorings, and permits follow different rules, and timing them with your closing can feel tricky. This guide breaks down who to call, what to check, and a practical timeline so you keep your boating plans on track. Let’s dive in.
Who regulates boat access in Kent County
Rhode Island CRMC overview
The Rhode Island Coastal Resources Management Council (CRMC) sets statewide rules for moorings, docks, and in‑water structures. CRMC policies affect whether a mooring is permitted, how transfers work, and what forms you need. If you need to verify a permit, seek a new placement, or understand transfer options, start with the CRMC’s guidance on its official website.
Local harbormasters: East Greenwich and Warwick
Local harbormasters administer mooring fields, issue seasonal permits and tags, maintain waitlists, and help enforce rules. In Kent County, contact the East Greenwich Harbormaster through the Town of East Greenwich site and the Warwick Harbor Master via the City of Warwick site. These offices can confirm assignment status, inspection requirements, fees, and next steps for transfers.
Types of berthing and how transfers work
Deeded or appurtenant moorings and piers
Some waterfront properties include mooring or pier rights in the deed. These rights may make it easier to continue using an existing mooring. Still, you must verify the legal and permit status. Check the deed language, confirm whether the CRMC permit is tied to the property or an individual, and review municipal records. A “deeded” right does not replace the need for a valid, current permit and any required inspections.
Municipal moorings from waitlists
Municipal moorings are assigned by the town from a waitlist. Policies vary by town, and waitlists can be long. In many cases, municipal assignments do not automatically transfer with a property sale. The buyer may need to apply or qualify under local rules. Ask the harbormaster for current waitlist status, timing, and any residency or vessel-size requirements.
Marina slips under contract
Marina slips are licensed or leased from a marina operator. Transfer rules depend on the contract and marina policy. Some marinas allow assignment to a new owner if the operator approves the transfer and the new owner meets registration and insurance requirements. Expect differences in seasonal terms, deposits, and fees. Get any transfer policy in writing.
A practical timeline that aligns with closing
Start early. Many steps depend on processing times, inspection schedules, and seasonal demand. Use this timeline as a guide.
90–120 days before closing: Early discovery
- Seller: Gather all mooring, slip, or pier documents. Include deed excerpts, CRMC permit numbers and cards, harbormaster receipts, marina contracts, and inspection records.
- Buyer: Request these documents early and consider adding them as a contingency item in your purchase agreement.
- Both: Contact CRMC and the local harbormaster to verify current permit status and transferability.
60–90 days: Confirm transfer rules
- Deeded/appurtenant: Confirm whether the permit is tied to the property or a person. Ask CRMC and the harbormaster for the exact transfer steps.
- Municipal moorings: Ask if the assignment can transfer. If not, learn the application process and realistic timeframe. Get waitlist details from East Greenwich or Warwick.
- Marina slips: Request the transfer policy in writing. Clarify paperwork, insurance, and any fees.
45–60 days: Inspections and safety
- Moorings: Check inspection dates and schedule a diver if needed. Some approvals require current inspection documentation.
- Marinas: Make sure registration, insurance, and any safety checks are current and ready to submit.
30–60 days: Submit transfer paperwork
- File CRMC and harbormaster forms with supporting documents. Include permit cards, assignment letters, and any required signatures.
- Allow for processing time. Initiate as early as possible, especially during peak season.
Through closing: Build contingencies and backups
- If approvals lag, line up temporary options: a transient slip, haul-out, dry-stack storage, or short-term mooring where permitted.
- Confirm insurance coverage during any move or temporary berth.
Closing week: Final checks
- Confirm written approvals or have escrow instructions that keep responsibilities clear until the transfer is complete.
- Use clear timelines in your contract to prevent a gap in mooring access.
Document checklist: What to collect and verify
Sellers should assemble these items, and buyers should request them early:
- CRMC permit number, permit card or copies, and any CRMC correspondence.
- Harbormaster receipts, assignment letters, and seasonal tag records.
- Deed excerpts showing any appurtenant pier or mooring rights.
- Marina slip lease/license, transfer policy, and a current account statement.
- Mooring tackle inspection reports and maintenance logs, including diver notes and tackle specs.
- Vessel registration and insurance, plus any required endorsements for a move.
- Harbormaster or marina contact details and required application forms.
Local tips to avoid delays
- Start conversations early. CRMC and local harbormaster offices have seasonal workloads. Early inquiries reduce surprises.
- Plan for inspection lead time. Diver availability can tighten in peak months.
- Expect variation by harbor. East Greenwich and Warwick each have their own waitlists and local rules. Confirm details in writing.
- Keep insurance current. Notify your insurer before moving a vessel or changing where it’s berthed.
- Consider seasonality. Off-season moves may be easier to schedule, but some services may have reduced hours.
Sample contract protections to consider
Use clear, simple clauses that tie boat access to realistic dates. Work with your Rhode Island closing attorney to tailor the wording.
Deeded mooring with permit in seller’s name:
- “Seller to obtain written confirmation from CRMC and the [Town/City] Harbormaster that the mooring permit will be reissued or transferred to Buyer on or before [date]. If not completed, [$$] will be held in escrow until transfer is confirmed.”
Municipal mooring dependent on approval:
- “Purchase is contingent upon Buyer’s receipt of a municipal mooring assignment or approval from the [Town/City] Harbormaster by [date]. If approval is not obtained, Buyer may terminate or renegotiate.”
Marina slip that requires operator consent:
- “Closing conditioned on marina’s written approval of slip transfer and Buyer’s acceptance by the marina. Transfer and initiation fees to be paid by [Buyer/Seller].”
Who to contact first
- CRMC for statewide rules, permits, and forms. Start with the CRMC website to understand requirements and locate forms.
- East Greenwich Harbormaster for local moorings, waitlists, and seasonal tags. Use the Town of East Greenwich site to find contact details.
- Warwick Harbor Master for moorings, public launches, and municipal marina information. Visit the City of Warwick site for the latest office information.
Next steps
If you’re planning a move in Warwick or East Greenwich, get ahead of the paperwork and inspection schedules now. Confirm whether your slip or mooring can transfer, gather documents, and put clear contingencies in place. A little coordination makes closing day smooth for both your home and your boat.
When you are ready, reach out to Cheryl Finley Properties for boutique, waterfront‑savvy guidance. We can coordinate with harbormasters, marinas, and your attorney so your vessel and your real estate timeline stay aligned. Schedule Your Personal Consultation.
FAQs
How do mooring permits work in Kent County?
- CRMC sets statewide rules and often approves permits, while local harbormasters in East Greenwich and Warwick handle assignments, fees, and enforcement.
Do municipal moorings transfer when I buy a home?
- Usually no. Municipal mooring assignments are governed by town policy, and buyers typically must apply or be approved by the harbormaster.
How long are mooring waitlists in Warwick or East Greenwich?
- It varies by season and harbor. Waits can range from months to years. Contact the harbormaster for current waitlist position and timing.
What documents do I need to transfer a marina slip?
- Expect a slip license or lease, proof of fee payment, insurance, registration, and the marina’s written transfer policy or approval.
What if a listing claims a mooring but there is no permit?
- Treat it as a warning sign. Verify permit records with CRMC and the local harbormaster before relying on any claimed mooring.
What are my temporary options if a transfer is delayed?
- Consider a transient marina slip, haul-out, dry-stack storage, or short-term mooring where allowed, and confirm insurance coverage during the change.
