City to temporarily suspend short-term vacation rental laws in response to Maui wildfires

News Release from Office of the Mayor, August 11, 2023

HONOLULU – In response to the anticipated need for emergency housing due to the devastating wildfires on Maui and Hawai‘i Island this week, Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi directed the Department of Planning and Permitting (DPP) to suspend the short-term vacation rental 30–day minimum rental period requirement to increase the availability of temporary housing on Oʻahu.

“In the spirit of wanting to do everything possible to help with this devastating and heartbreaking tragedy, we are suspending the 30-day requirement for short-term vacation rentals to help provide housing on Oʻahu for those most in need,” said Mayor Rick Blangiardi. “We hope that this will provide some relief for any of our displaced neighbors who are in need of a safe place to stay during these trying times.”

DPP is suspending the 30-day minimum rental period requirement for short-term vacation rentals in compliance with Gov. Josh Green’s Fourth Proclamation Relating to Wildfires, dated August 10, 2023. The suspension is effective immediately and will last through August 31, 2023, consistent with the emergency proclamation.

“We now know that there are countless Maui residents who will need places to stay in the coming weeks. I am counting on our local rental property owners to keep those individuals their top priority,” added Mayor Blangiardi.

Mayor Blangiardi on Friday also encouraged the owners and managers of rental properties to assist wildfire victims, if possible, by providing needed temporary housing at free or discounted rates.

“The people of Maui need our help, and we have an opportunity to make a significant impact,” said Mayor Blangiardi. “I am urging those of you who own rental properties here on Oʻahu to consider opening your doors to our Maui neighbors who have been devastated by this tragedy.”

Anyone looking to contribute to Maui wildfire relief efforts should visit the Maui County website by clicking the following link: https://www.mauicounty.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=12656

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