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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Hanalei, HI

Last verified: 2026-05-14 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

STRs are prohibited in all areas not designated as Visitor Destination Areas (VDAs) unless the property has a valid Nonconforming Use Certificate (NCUC) issued for operations pre-dating March 2008. Operators must display a 24/7 contact number on-site, provide tsunami evacuation plans if applicable, and maintain current GET/TAT tax filings.

How to Obtain a Permit

1. Verify the property is in a Visitor Destination Area (VDA) or holds a valid Nonconforming Use Certificate. 2. Submit a completed application form with a $750 non-refundable fee, tax filings (GET/TAT), and property photos. 3. Provide required safety documentation, including a tsunami evacuation plan and a 24/7 local contact sign on the property.

Official Resources

Official Hanalei STR regulation source

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Airbnbs legal in Hanalei, HI?
Airbnb listings are allowed in Hanalei, HI, but with restrictions. STRs are prohibited in all areas not designated as Visitor Destination Areas (VDAs) unless the property has a valid Nonconforming Use Certificate (NCUC) issued for operations pre-dating March 2008. Operators must display a 24/7 contact number on-site, provide tsunami evacuation plans if applicable, and maintain current GET/TAT tax filings. A permit is required before you can host. These rules apply to all short-term rental platforms (Airbnb, Vrbo, Booking.com, etc.) — not just Airbnb specifically. See the official source linked on this page for full requirements. Last verified 2026-05-14.
Are short-term rentals allowed in Hanalei, HI?
STRs are prohibited in all areas not designated as Visitor Destination Areas (VDAs) unless the property has a valid Nonconforming Use Certificate (NCUC) issued for operations pre-dating March 2008. Operators must display a 24/7 contact number on-site, provide tsunami evacuation plans if applicable, and maintain current GET/TAT tax filings.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Hanalei?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Hanalei. 1. Verify the property is in a Visitor Destination Area (VDA) or holds a valid Nonconforming Use Certificate. 2. Submit a completed application form with a $750 non-refundable fee, tax filings (GET/TAT), and property photos. 3. Provide required safety documentation, including a tsunami evacuation plan and a 24/7 local contact sign on the property.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Hanalei?
1. Verify the property is in a Visitor Destination Area (VDA) or holds a valid Nonconforming Use Certificate. 2. Submit a completed application form with a $750 non-refundable fee, tax filings (GET/TAT), and property photos. 3. Provide required safety documentation, including a tsunami evacuation plan and a 24/7 local contact sign on the property.
Is Vrbo legal in Hanalei, HI?
Vrbo is permitted in Hanalei, HI under the same restrictions that apply to Airbnb — local rules govern the rental itself, not the specific platform. You must hold a valid permit before hosting on Vrbo. Last verified 2026-05-14.
What taxes do short-term rental hosts pay in Hanalei?
Short-term rental hosts in Hanalei are typically responsible for lodging, occupancy, and applicable sales taxes — these usually apply even where hosting is allowed without a permit. Rates and remittance rules vary by jurisdiction (state, county, and city can each levy a share); confirm the current rates with the official source linked on this page. Platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo collect some taxes automatically, but the host remains liable for any not collected on their behalf.
What is the latest short-term rental ordinance change in Hanalei?
We are not currently tracking any recent short-term rental ordinance changes for Hanalei. STR rules change frequently — verify the current requirements with the city or county before listing, using the official source linked on this page.
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Disclaimer

This information is for general reference only and may not reflect the most current regulations. STR regulations change frequently. Always verify requirements with official local government sources before operating a short-term rental.

Last verified: 2026-05-14 · Suggest a correction