Informing the Legislature that on May 28, 2024, the Governor signed the following bill into law: SB3202 SD2 HD1 CD1 (ACT 039).

This bill requires Hawaii counties to update their local laws to allow the construction of at least two accessory dwelling units on most residentially zoned lots to help address housing shortages. Counties must define reasonable standards for these units and ensure they are located in areas that meet specific planning criteria, such as proximity to mass transit or major roads, or in districts that can meet projected housing demand. Larger counties with populations of 500,000 or more must also permit additional units in existing apartment districts to meet future housing needs. While the law mandates these changes, it allows counties to deny permits if there is insufficient space on a specific lot to comply with the new requirements.