Maui county is reevaluating its approach to vacation rentals, proposing to classify 4,519 units under new hotel-style zoning (H-3 and H-4) rather than implementing an outright ban. The committee’s proposal, discussed in the Housing and Land Use Committee, aims to protect a significant portion of rental units while aligning them with current building codes. This comes as Maui was recognized by National Geographic as a top destination for 2026, emphasizing the importance of tourism.
Vice-chair Nohelani Wu Hodgins clarified that the plan seeks to provide clarity, not to expand rental uses, while Committee Chairwoman Alice Lee cautioned against rushing Bill 9 before the zoning is finalized. The Planning Department anticipates a lengthy rezoning process that could last at least a year.
The proposed rental units primarily serve tourist-heavy areas like Kihei and Lahaina. Supporters argue this plan stabilizes the economy, while critics claim it favors commercial operators in residential zones. The debate continues amid financial pressures, as substantial property tax revenues are at stake.
Despite ongoing discussions, no immediate changes are anticipated. Bill 9 will receive its first reading in November, and the zoning proposals are still under consideration. This uncertainty is causing anxiety among potential visitors about the future of their bookings.
Source link
