Maui Mayor Signs STR Conversion Bill into Law

12/16/2025

Maui Mayor Richard Bissen has signed Bill 9 into law, setting a timeline to phase out more than 6,200 short-term rental units in South and West Maui and convert them to long-term housing for residents. The measure, approved by the County Council in a 5–3 vote, gives West Maui owners three years and South Maui owners five years to transition. Supporters say the law addresses Maui’s housing shortage, while opponents argue many units may be unaffordable or bought up by large investors. Owners of about 4,500 units may apply for rezoning into new hotel districts, though approvals are not guaranteed.

Honolulu Star-Advertiser (12/15/25) Dan Nakaso