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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Pahoa, HI

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

STVRs are defined as dwellings rented for 30 days or less with no more than five bedrooms. The owner or a designated 'reachable person' must reside in Hawaii County and be available 24/7 to respond to issues within one hour by phone. Properties must have final building, electrical, and plumbing approvals, provide required off-street parking, and adhere to quiet hours (9:00 PM to 8:00 AM). Registration or NUC numbers must be displayed in all advertisements and on the premises.

How to Obtain a Permit

1) Gather required documents including the STVR Registration Form, proof of State GE and TAT licenses, County property tax clearance, and final building/electrical/plumbing approvals. 2) Submit the application and a $500 non-refundable fee through the Planning Department's EPIC online submittal system. 3) For rentals in non-permitted zones, apply for a Nonconforming Use Certificate (NUC), which must be renewed annually for a $250 fee.

Official Resources

Official Pahoa STR regulation source

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in Pahoa, HI?
STVRs are defined as dwellings rented for 30 days or less with no more than five bedrooms. The owner or a designated 'reachable person' must reside in Hawaii County and be available 24/7 to respond to issues within one hour by phone. Properties must have final building, electrical, and plumbing approvals, provide required off-street parking, and adhere to quiet hours (9:00 PM to 8:00 AM). Registration or NUC numbers must be displayed in all advertisements and on the premises.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Pahoa?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Pahoa. 1) Gather required documents including the STVR Registration Form, proof of State GE and TAT licenses, County property tax clearance, and final building/electrical/plumbing approvals. 2) Submit the application and a $500 non-refundable fee through the Planning Department's EPIC online submittal system. 3) For rentals in non-permitted zones, apply for a Nonconforming Use Certificate (NUC), which must be renewed annually for a $250 fee.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Pahoa?
1) Gather required documents including the STVR Registration Form, proof of State GE and TAT licenses, County property tax clearance, and final building/electrical/plumbing approvals. 2) Submit the application and a $500 non-refundable fee through the Planning Department's EPIC online submittal system. 3) For rentals in non-permitted zones, apply for a Nonconforming Use Certificate (NUC), which must be renewed annually for a $250 fee.
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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: March 2026 · Suggest a correction