The County of Hawai'i is initiating a review and update of its zoning and subdivision codes (Chapters 25 and 23 of the 1983 Hawai'i County Code). The intent of the code updates are to increase consistency and predictability, incorporate best practices in land use and zoning, promote desirable and equitable development, and meet the needs of the Hawai'i Island Community. To kick off the process, a round of community engagment was initiated in October 2022 including small focus group meetings, two in-person open house events and this virtual open house.
The virtual open house provides many interactive opportunities to review the information presented during the in-person open house events, interact with the Project Team and provide thoughts and ideas for this initial round of public input.
The Open House will accept comments through Sunday, November 13th
HOW TO USE THE VIRTUAL OPEN HOUSE AND PROVIDE INPUT:
There are several ways to participate and provide input through the Virtual Open House:
1. View and listen to the introductory video
2. Fill out surveys and add comments directly to the open house boards (commentors will be asked to provide an email address).
3. Submit comments and questions to the Project Team using the comment form.
It is recommended that you register for a free website account at the top of the page to avoid inputting your name and email address as you provide us comments in the Open House.
Two in-person open houses were held to kick off the initial phase of public engagement for the code updates. Watch the video abpve to learn more about the Zoning and Subdivision Code updates process, purpose and objectives, and scroll to sections below to participate in this Virtual Open House.
Project Information
A consultant team including Rundell Ernstberger Associates, Orion Planning + Design, and SSFM International was hired to assist the County of Hawai'i with reviewing and updating the County’s zoning and subdivision codes. The Hawai'i County Zoning and Subdivision Codes date back to the early 1960’s, and they have undergone scores of changes to accommodate new conditions and broader responsibilities. The Zoning Code was last amended in 1996 and the Subdivision Code in 1983. Many of the problems encountered in administering the code can be attributed to the piecemeal fashion in which it has been amended over the years. The result is a cumbersome and somewhat confusing organization of the codes; provisions and terms that are often ambiguous, inconsistent, outdated, obsolete, or redundant; complex permit review and code enforcement procedures; and standards that do not promote the livable built environment that is identified in the County’s long-range plans.
Project Purpose & Objectives
The overall purpose of this project is to analyze, update, and amend the Hawai'i County Zoning and Subdivision Codes to provide for best practice in land use regulations and to ensure they are consistent and dynamic.
The process to update the zoning code is community-driven. The process is guided by six primary objectives:
- Make the zoning code easier to understand and administer.
- Improve the efficiency of the regulatory and permitting process.
- Protect important agricultural, environmental, cultural, and historic resources.
- Implement the goals and objectives of the new county General Plan.
- Provide more contemporary and modern approaches to hazard mitigation,climate adaptation, and smart growth.
- Amend zoning districts to better addresss local needs.
