Richmond total land area = 40.778 square miles (26,074 acres)

• 58.22% is undeveloped forest
• 13.84% is developed
• 10.68% is agriculture
• 0.63% is commercial/industrial
(1995 data from Grow Smart, RI)

The breakdown of Richmond's land use shows a relatively large amount of open or undeveloped land available to develop or to preserve. According to the town planner, Richmond land is "seemingly unlimited."
Even so, as a result of the rapid growth Richmond is experiencing, preservation of open space and farmland are now considered a priority. Richmond has adopted certain plans and regulations, including zoning, to direct what land uses can take place in different areas.