Roth signs measure expanding housing opportunities on Big Island

New provisions that expand opportunities for Hawai‘i County homeowners to build accessory dwelling units, also called ʻohanas, on their property is now law after it was signed Tuesday by Mayor Mitch Roth.

Bill 123 is aimed at increasing housing inventory around the Big Island, addressing the county’s housing shortage and enabling local families to stay in Hawai‘i. Each accessory dwelling unit can be up to 1,250 square feet in size.

“Hawaiʻi County is leading the way with Bill 123. [Accessory dwelling units] offer a flexible and affordable housing solution for our residents,” said Hawai‘i County Council Chairwoman Heather Kimball. “Building [accessory dwelling units] for parents, children or long-term renters can help families stay together here on the island and can help homeowners generate extra income needed to get by. By encouraging development of existing properties in urban areas close to school, work and commercial areas, [accessory dwelling units] also promote more sustainable land use practices outside the urban core.”

The measure was co-drafted by Kimball, Hawai‘i County Councilwoman Ashley Kierkiewicz, Hawai‘i County Planning Director Zendo Kern and Hawai‘i County Deputy Director Jeff Darrow.

“Bill 123 is a significant step toward expanding housing opportunities on Hawaiʻi Island,” said Kierkiewicz. “By allowing more [accessory dwelling units] in urban areas, we’re encouraging smart growth within our communities. This practical solution not only increases housing availability, but also empowers residents to actively contribute to addressing our island’s housing shortage.”

The new provisions replace previous restrictions on ʻohana dwelling units, providing more flexibility for homeowners to add accessory dwelling units.

Key amendments include:

• Allowing accessory dwelling units, whether detached or attached, to be built alongside single-family homes in residential, duplex, residential-agricultural, agricultural and family agricultural districts.
• Limiting each property to a maximum of three accessory dwelling units.
• Ensuring compliance with infrastructure and safety standards, including requirements for sewage disposal and water supply.
• Restricting the use of accessory dwelling units for transient accommodations, with limited exceptions.

“The ability to build additional dwellings on existing properties is essential in addressing our housing shortage, but it’s also about preserving our communities and ensuring that future generations — our keiki — can continue to live and thrive here in Hawai‘i,” said Roth. “This bill expands our housing inventory in a way that is both sustainable and community-centered.”

The county says Bill 123 reflects it’s commitment to tackling the island’s housing crisis while promoting long-term stability and sustainability.

For more information about the new accessory dwelling unit provisions or to learn how to apply for building permits, contact the Hawai‘i County Planning Department at planning@hawaiicounty.gov.