New Hotel Zoning Clears Maui County Council Committee Despite Planning Commissions’ Opposition

6/1/2026

The Maui County Council Housing and Land Use Committee voted to advance Bill 88, which would create new hotel zoning categories (H-3 and H-4) for thousands of short-term vacation rentals that are being phased out under the county’s broader housing policy (Bill 9). The proposal targets roughly 4,500 grandfathered units across 104 properties on the Minatoya List and would not immediately rezone any properties, but instead establish a pathway for future hotel zoning applications. The measure passed despite unanimous opposition from Maui, Molokai, and Lanai planning commissions. Supporters, including committee members and Mayor Richard Bissen, described the bill as a necessary framework to manage existing uses while balancing housing and tourism needs. Opponents argued it could undermine efforts to restore housing. The committee approved amendments tightening eligibility criteria and exempting Molokai. The bill now moves to the full council for further readings and potential final adoption after additional review and amendments.

Maui Now (05/27/26) Brian Perry

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