Frequently Asked Questions

The City Clerk's Office is responsible for many functions, but there are still some tasks associated with our office that are actually done by others. Please read below to find out the right department or agency to accomplish your task. We hope this information will save you an unnecessary visit to Providence City Hall. There are separate offices that handle vital statistics, deeds/mortgages, land records etc., code enforcement, flood maps and listings of abandoned properties.

1. In other states, birth/death/marriage certificates are to be filed at the City Clerk's Office. In Providence, however, there is a separate Vital Statistics office that deals with birth/death/marriage certificates. It is located on the ground floor of the Providence City Hall .
   
2. There is also a separate office that deals with deeds/mortgages, which is our Recorder of Deeds. Those with questions/concerns in this area should contact the Recorder of Deeds (401) 421-7740 x 312. (Fifth Floor Providence City Hall, Room 506).
   
3. Those looking for Code Enforcement should not contact the City Clerk's office. You should either call (401) 421-7740 x 350 or ask for the Department of Inspection and Standards.
   
   
4. Flood maps are not available at the City Clerk's office. They are available at:

Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency
645 New London Avenue
Cranston, RI 02920

Telephone: (401) 946-9996
email: RIEMA@excite.com