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SB 216

RELATING TO FARM DWELLINGS.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Lynn DeCoite

SB 216 relaxes Hawaii farm dwelling regulations to increase residential construction options on agricultural lands, addressing housing shortages while raising concerns about farmland preservation.

Reported from AEN (Stand. Com. Rep. No. 457) with recommendation of passage on Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referral to JDC.
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Bill Summary · SB 216

Legislative bill overview

SB 216 modifies Hawaii's regulations governing farm dwellings, allowing agricultural landowners greater flexibility in residential construction on farmland. The bill has passed second reading with amendments and is currently in the Judiciary Committee. The specific provisions relate to clarifying which dwellings qualify as agricultural exemptions or establishing new standards for farm residential structures.

Why is this important

Hawaii faces acute housing shortages and affordability crises, particularly in rural areas. This bill addresses housing supply by potentially enabling more residential construction on agricultural lands, which comprise significant portions of Hawaii's available property. The measure balances agricultural preservation with practical housing needs for farming families and agricultural workers.

Potential points of contention

  • Agricultural land conversion concerns: Environmental and farming advocates may worry the bill enables conversion of productive farmland to residential use, threatening Hawaii's food security and agricultural economy
  • Regulatory clarity gaps: The amendments suggest ongoing disputes about defining what constitutes a legitimate "farm dwelling" versus residential sprawl disguised as agricultural housing
  • Jurisdiction conflicts: Questions may remain about how county governments, the state, and land trusts coordinate enforcement and whether the bill adequately protects agricultural districts from development pressure

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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