Bill > HB1814

This bill establishes new regulations for vegetation management to reduce wildfire risks, particularly those caused by electric utilities. It mandates that property owners create "defensible space," a buffer zone of cleared vegetation around structures, and requires electric utilities to maintain firebreaks around their poles and towers, ensuring a minimum clearance of ten feet. The bill also sets specific minimum distances for vegetation to be kept away from power lines, with greater distances for higher voltage lines, and requires utilities to proactively manage vegetation to prevent contact. The Department of Land and Natural Resources will be responsible for adopting rules to implement these standards, including enforcement procedures and penalties for non-compliance, such as fines and liability for damages from wildfires caused by violations. Additionally, the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations will establish safety rules for vegetation management workers, and the bill outlines provisions for prevailing wage rates for certain workers involved in this work.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=1814&year=2026