Lawmakers in Maui passed legislation aimed at reducing vacation rentals to combat a housing shortage worsened by the Lahaina wildfire two years ago. The Maui County Council’s housing committee approved the bill, closing a loophole that allowed short-term rentals in apartment zones. The measure mandates a minimum rental period of 180 days, aiming to convert vacation rentals into long-term housing, potentially adding over 6,000 units.
Vacation rentals currently comprise 21% of Maui’s housing. Opponents argue this could harm local maintenance workers reliant on tourism. Mayor Richard Bissen, who proposed the bill, emphasized prioritizing housing for residents and balancing tourism without compromising neighborhoods. While visitor spending may decline, the mayor noted that much rental income does not benefit the local economy. The bill’s enforcement timeline extends to 2028 in West Maui and 2030 for the rest of the county.
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