Back to top
Doing business with us
DEM remains open and fully operational. However, due to guidelines related to COVID-19, we have limited walk-in service at locations with the most frequent lines and crowds. We encourage customers to use online, telephonic, or mail-in services whenever possible.
Reopening Guidance for DEM Headquarters in Providence
The State of Rhode Island has been working hard to make sure state employees have the tools they need to navigate the workplace in a COVID-19 world. As we move past weathering the storm and toward reopening the economy, safety and awareness are key to protecting yourself and others in the workplace. Below, you’ll find tools to help you find your way.
Submitting Permit Applications
The Permit Application Center (PAC) at DEM Headquarters located at 235 Promenade Street in Providence is still accepting and processing applications and honoring all scheduled in-person appointments, but walk-in service is paused at the PAC until further notice. Applications can be dropped off directly outside the PAC, and the team will respond within one to two business days.
Contact DEM at 401-222-4700 ext. 77265 or email DEM.PAC@dem.ri.gov with questions or to set up an appointment for other services. If you are seeking assistance for wetlands or OWTS/septic systems, please call 401-222-4700 and ask for the person on-call for the specific program.
Boating Registrations & Fishing/Hunting Licenses, Permits, & Tags
Walk-in service at DEM's Office of Boat Registration and Licensing in Providence has been paused. The Office can provide most of its services online and new vessels can be registered by mail. Learn More
Fish & Wildlife: Blue Cards, Wildlife Rehab Tests, Outdoor Education Programs
The Division of Fish & Wildlife Headquarters in West Kingston is closed to walk-ins. Needs are being met by phone at 401-789-0281, mail, or email (DEM.DFW@dem.ri.gov). No Blue Card tests or Wildlife Rehabilitation Tests will be offered. Blue Card tests are available at non-DEM locations. Learn More
The Division of Fish & Wildlife Outdoor Education Office, Arcadia Management Area, Exeter is closed to walk-ins. Needs are being met by phone, mail, or email. Walk-in Hunter Safety and Bow Hunter exams will be postponed until May 1. Contact the Office at 401-539-0019.
Commercial Fishing
The Division of Marine Fisheries and Coastal Resources (Port of Galilee) locations. Needs are being met by phone, mail, or email. Whelk pot and tautog tags are not available for pickup at DEM’s offices. The rules requiring these tags begin on April 1st, but DEM will temporarily not enforce the whelk pot and tautog tag rules; the requirement is postponed until May 1, 2020. Learn More
Purchasing Parking Placards for the Galilee State Parking Lot G
Due to guidelines related to COVID-19, DEM's Coastal Resources office in Galilee has made adjustments to procedures to limit walk-in service. Applications for seasonal parking placards for Galilee State Parking Lot G are available for mail in submission only. Download the application here. Please mail the completed application, copies of vehicle registrations, copy of valid driver’s license, and check made payable to the State of RI to RIDEM Division of Coastal Resources at 301 Great Island Rd, Narragansett, RI 02882. We will process your application and mail the completed placard back to the address listed on your application.