Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Kilauea, HI

Airbnb listings are allowed in Kilauea, HI, but with restrictions. Short-term rentals are generally prohibited outside the Visitor Destination Area (VDA) unless they have a non-conforming use permit or homestay authorization. Operators must maintain a 24/7 on-island contact who lives on Kaua‘i, display a TVCN sign with contact info, and meet safety requirements including fire extinguishers and evacuation plans. 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.

Short-term rentals are generally prohibited outside the Visitor Destination Area (VDA) unless they have a non-conforming use permit or homestay authorization. Operators must maintain a 24/7 on-island contact who lives on Kaua‘i, display a TVCN sign with contact info, and meet safety requirements including fire extinguishers and evacuation plans.

Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Kilauea. 1. Submit a complete renewal application packet to the Kaua‘i County Planning Department via certified mail, including a $750 non-refundable fee. 2. Provide required documentation including State GET/TAT returns, proof of a 5 lb. fire extinguisher, and photos of the required TVR signage. 3. Ensure all advertisements include the TVCN number and that a 24/7 on-island contact is established.

1. Submit a complete renewal application packet to the Kaua‘i County Planning Department via certified mail, including a $750 non-refundable fee. 2. Provide required documentation including State GET/TAT returns, proof of a 5 lb. fire extinguisher, and photos of the required TVR signage. 3. Ensure all advertisements include the TVCN number and that a 24/7 on-island contact is established.

Vrbo is permitted in Kilauea, 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.

Short-term rental hosts in Kilauea 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.

We are not currently tracking any recent short-term rental ordinance changes for Kilauea. STR rules change frequently — verify the current requirements with the city or county before listing, using the official source linked on this page.