Property Management Insights
Hawaii has long been a major market for short-term rentals. The rules and regulations keep evolving, and recent updates could have significant impacts on property owners, guests, and property managers. Read on for more information, implications, and actionable advice for property managers regarding the passage of Bill 62.
Key Regulatory Changes & Developments
- As of September 2025, the minimum number of days changed from 30 to 90 consecutive days
- New rentals as of 9/1/25 need to have a 90-day minimum
- If you already have a tenant in for 30 days or less, that is okay, but new rentals moving forward need to be at least 90 days.
- Exceptions include:
- Hotel zoning – read our blog about Waikiki condotel zoning here.
- Nonconforming use certificate
- Bed and breakfast permit
- Legal challenges
- Last year, bill 41 tried to change the minimum days from 30 to 90 but was without due process and why 30 days remained.
- This court case is still ongoing so it is unclear what enforcement will be like for the new 90-day rule until the injunction has been resolved in the courts.
Recommendations & Best Practices
- Conduct a Compliance Audit
Review all properties under management and check that permits are current and be sure you’re clear on the each property’s zoning. - Stay Informed of Local Law Changes
Laws change frequently. Property managers should subscribe to local government notices, join local STR associations in Hawaii, or use compliance software/tools that track regulatory changes. - Maintain solid documentation
Keep copies of permits, registration, inspection reports, correspondence with authorities, tax filings. This helps both in case of audits and in assuring property owners and guests that properties are compliant. - Transparent communication with owners
Many property owners may not be familiar with regulatory details. Provide clear briefing, share what’s required, what it costs, what risks there are. Sometimes owners need to invest in upgrades to meet safety/zoning standards. - Insurance & legal review
Make sure insurance policies cover STR activities, which could have different risk profiles than long-term rentals. Also, legal counsel should review contracts and compliance steps, to reduce exposure. - Plan for enforcement scenarios
Be prepared for inspections, complaints, or orders to cease operations. Having a protocol in place (who does what, how to respond) will reduce downtime or fines.
Rental Management Experts
Regulation of short-term rentals in Hawaii is tightening. For property managers, this means staying proactive is no longer optional—it’s essential. The cost of non-compliance (financial, legal, reputational) is rising. But with good systems, clear communications, and staying ahead of regulatory changes, STR properties can remain a viable, profitable business. Working with an experiened management company, like Caron B Realty International, can take the stress away and ensure compliance.
To learn more about our comprehensive property management services, click here or contact Doug at (808) 596-4883 or dougdavis@caronb.com. Visit our YouTube channel to watch our property management series, Ask Doug! in which Doug answers common property management questions.
