Maui Bill 9 Update: What It Means Moving Forward—for Locals and Visitors Alike
Housing on Maui is a deeply important topic, and recent legislation has sparked many questions. One of the most discussed changes is Bill 9, which is now law. Rather than taking a position for or against it, my goal is to share clear, balanced information and help people understand what it may mean moving forward—whether you live on Maui full-time or visit regularly.
This is a changing and evolving situation, and there is no reason for panic. Much will continue to unfold over the coming years.
What Is Bill 9?
Bill 9 addresses short-term vacation rentals located in apartment-zoned areas of Maui—often referred to as properties on the Minatoya List. These are units that have operated as vacation rentals for many years despite being located in areas not originally zoned for short term rentals.
Under Bill 9:
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These properties are subject to future use changes over a multi-year timeline, rather than immediate action
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West Maui timelines extend into 2029, with other areas extending into 2031
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Resort- and hotel-zoned properties remain unaffected
The intent of the bill is to encourage more housing availability for local residents, while still preserving visitor accommodations in areas originally designed for tourism.
Why This Matters—for Everyone
This topic affects many groups in different ways, and there is no one-size-fits-all outcome.
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Local residents may see new opportunities—not only for long-term rentals, but also for condos becoming available for purchase, potentially opening doors to homeownership
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Property owners and investors have time to evaluate options and long-term strategies
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Visitors and second-home owners can feel reassured that legally zoned resort accommodations will continue to operate
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Buyers and sellers are navigating a market that is adjusting gradually, not overnight
Importantly, Bill 9 does not eliminate tourism on Maui. It refines how different areas are used while allowing time for adjustment.
What to Expect Moving Forward
Now that Bill 9 has passed, the focus shifts to how things evolve over time:
• A long runway
With timelines stretching years into the future, there is room for thoughtful planning rather than rushed decisions.
• Ongoing discussions and potential changes
Additional legislation, zoning conversations, and legal challenges are expected. The landscape may look very different in a few years than it does today.
• Market adaptation
As with any major policy shift, the real estate market will continue to adapt gradually as clarity increases.
How I’m Helping Clients Navigate This
My role is not to push an agenda, but to help people make informed, confident decisions—based on facts, goals, and realistic expectations.
I’m actively helping:
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Local residents explore both rental and purchase opportunities
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Buyers understand zoning and future use considerations
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Second-home owners and visitors identify properties aligned with their lifestyle and legal use
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Sellers position their homes thoughtfully in a changing environment
Every situation is different, and thoughtful guidance matters more than ever.
A Calm, Informed Path Forward
Bill 9 reflects Maui’s continued effort to balance housing needs, community values, and a healthy visitor economy. While change can feel uncertain, it is also happening over time—and with room for adjustment.
My commitment remains the same:
to stay informed, remain neutral, and help both locals and visitors navigate Maui real estate with clarity and confidence.
If you have questions about how this may relate to a specific property or future plans, I’m always happy to talk story.
