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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Kekaha, HI

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

Zoning & Conditions

Rentals are restricted to Visitor Destination Areas (VDAs) or properties with a Nonconforming Use Certificate. Requirements include a 24/7 local contact provided to neighbors, a posted sign with the registration number and contact info, and inclusion of the registration/NCU number in all advertisements.

How to Obtain a Permit

Complete the Planning Department application or renewal packet (including site/floor plans and evidence of pre-2008 use for NCUs). Submit the packet via certified mail to the Planning Department at 4444 Rice Street, Suite A473, Lihue, HI 96766. Pay the required fees, such as the $750 annual renewal fee.

Official Resources

Official Kekaha STR regulation source

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Airbnbs legal in Kekaha, HI?
Airbnb listings are allowed in Kekaha, HI, but with restrictions. Rentals are restricted to Visitor Destination Areas (VDAs) or properties with a Nonconforming Use Certificate. Requirements include a 24/7 local contact provided to neighbors, a posted sign with the registration number and contact info, and inclusion of the registration/NCU number in all advertisements. 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 Kekaha, HI?
Rentals are restricted to Visitor Destination Areas (VDAs) or properties with a Nonconforming Use Certificate. Requirements include a 24/7 local contact provided to neighbors, a posted sign with the registration number and contact info, and inclusion of the registration/NCU number in all advertisements.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Kekaha?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Kekaha. Complete the Planning Department application or renewal packet (including site/floor plans and evidence of pre-2008 use for NCUs). Submit the packet via certified mail to the Planning Department at 4444 Rice Street, Suite A473, Lihue, HI 96766. Pay the required fees, such as the $750 annual renewal fee.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Kekaha?
Complete the Planning Department application or renewal packet (including site/floor plans and evidence of pre-2008 use for NCUs). Submit the packet via certified mail to the Planning Department at 4444 Rice Street, Suite A473, Lihue, HI 96766. Pay the required fees, such as the $750 annual renewal fee.
Is Vrbo legal in Kekaha, HI?
Vrbo is permitted in Kekaha, 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 Kekaha?
Short-term rental hosts in Kekaha 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 Kekaha?
We are not currently tracking any recent short-term rental ordinance changes for Kekaha. 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