Bill > SB1334

This bill addresses a discrepancy between state and county land use classifications by creating a new petition process for amending land use district boundaries. Specifically, the bill allows county planning agencies to petition for changes to land use district boundaries for areas larger than 15 acres, with the goal of aligning state land use classifications with county general plans and development plans. Currently, only smaller land areas (15 acres or less) could be easily reclassified, but this bill expands that ability to larger parcels. The legislation was prompted by a 2022 State Land Use Review which found that approximately 1.6% of Hawaii's total lands (65,792 acres) are located in county-designated urban growth areas but are not officially classified as state urban districts. The bill aims to streamline development processes, potentially support housing production, and ensure that land use classifications more accurately reflect local planning goals. County land use decision-making authorities would be empowered to process these boundary amendments, with requirements to notify state agencies and transmit decisions within specific timeframes. This change is intended to create more flexibility and alignment between state and county land use planning efforts.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1334&year=2025