---
title: "Is arson a felony in Rhode Island?"
description: "Yes. Every degree of arson in Rhode Island is a felony, and every arson case is prosecuted in Rhode Island Superior Court. There is no misdemeanor version of arson under state law, even for small..."
url: https://bankandmunns.com/faq-items/is-arson-a-felony-in-rhode-island/
date: 2026-04-21
modified: 2026-04-22
author: "Bank and Munns"
type: avada_faq
lang: en
---

# Is arson a felony in Rhode Island?

Yes. Every degree of arson in Rhode Island is a felony, and every arson case is prosecuted in Rhode Island Superior Court. There is no misdemeanor version of arson under state law, even for small fires on personal property. A conviction produces a permanent felony record that appears on every background check, strips your firearm rights under both state and federal law, can trigger deportation if you are not a U.S. citizen, and can block you from professional licensing, housing, and certain jobs. Because arson is always a felony, the Fifth and Sixth Amendment protections apply at full strength from the first contact with law enforcement. If a fire marshal, ATF agent, or detective contacts you about a fire, do not answer questions - ask for a **Rhode Island arson lawyer** before anything else. Bank & Munns defends arson cases statewide and can be reached 24/7 at 401-573-2265.