Bill > HB1233

This bill requires counties in Hawaii to develop comprehensive safety regulations for retention and detention ponds, which are water management systems designed to control stormwater and flooding. The legislation mandates that counties create ordinances establishing detailed safety requirements, including four-foot-high enclosure fencing, locked gates, warning signage, life buoys, proper ground maintenance, and emergency spillways. Counties must also create a permitting process for new ponds, conduct regular inspections, and maintain a registry of all existing ponds. The bill was inspired by Hawaii's high drowning rate and specifically memorializes Charlotte "Sharkey" Schaefers, a five-year-old who tragically drowned. Additionally, each county is required to conduct a comprehensive survey of existing retention and detention ponds and submit a detailed report to the legislature by twenty days before the 2026 regular session. The bill distinguishes between "detention ponds" (which temporarily hold water and dry out within 72 hours) and "retention ponds" (which are more permanent aquatic systems designed to trap and filter pollutants). The legislation aims to improve public safety, manage stormwater more effectively, and address challenges exacerbated by climate change, which has increased the frequency and intensity of rainfall.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=1233&year=2026