In order to ensure that the organization remains a viable and trusted cooperative for its Members, policies and regulations that dictate standards of conduct must be in place. As a responsibility of every Member, knowledge of the multiple listing policies and regulations results in State-Wide MLS agents and brokers having the highest levels of real estate professionalism in the industry.

This section contains the most recent operating guidelines of State-Wide MLS participation, as well as the respective fees and penalties for noncompliance.

Please note – as these policies and regulations are continually updated to reflect our ever-changing market, Members are encouraged to visit this section regularly to become familiar with any revised rules.

Rules & Regulations

• View the current MLS Rules & Regulations  – Approved August 2024

MLS Compensation Policy Change 

• Compensation Policy Change - Effective Dec. 1, 2023

MLS Penalties & Fines for Noncompliance

• Penalties & Fines - rev. 10/2024

Clear Cooperation

On Tuesday March 25, 2025, State-Wide MLS and the RI Association of REALTORS learned of a new Clear Cooperation Policy unveiled by NAR.   State-Wide MLS leadership will need time to review the policy in context with our local rules to determine what, if any, changes need to happen.  A legal briefing with Association legal staff will be held on Thursday, March 27th, and we will share more information as it becomes available.  Please note, the deadline for implementing the changes is September 30, 2025.   

NAR has FAQs for REALTORS and other resources on Facts.Realtor.