WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SB 216

RELATING TO FARM DWELLINGS.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Lynn DeCoite

Hawaii bill modifies farm dwelling regulations to affect residential housing options on agricultural property while balancing farmland preservation concerns.

Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
#agriculturalparklots #boa #doa #farmdwellings #inspections #landuse
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 216

Legislative bill overview

SB 216 modifies Hawaii's regulations governing residential dwellings on agricultural lands, specifically addressing farm housing provisions. The bill passed the Agricultural and Environmental Committee with amendments in February 2025 and was carried over to the 2026 legislative session for continued consideration.

Why is this important

Hawaii faces significant housing affordability challenges, and farmland-based housing regulations directly affect whether agricultural property owners can develop residential units on their land. These rules influence both agricultural viability and Hawaii's broader housing supply, making them relevant to rural communities and housing advocates.

Potential points of contention

  • Agricultural land preservation vs. housing development: Expanding farm dwelling allowances may convert agricultural acreage to residential use, conflicting with efforts to protect Hawaii's limited farmland and food security
  • Property rights and regulatory burden: Agricultural landowners may view restrictions on farm dwellings as limiting their property use, while agricultural advocates worry about farmland fragmentation
  • Implementation details unclear: The specific amendments made in SD 1 are not detailed in available records, making it difficult to assess whether the changes adequately balance competing interests

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

Sign in to ask a question.