Relating To Urban Development.
The bill explicitly requires each county to adopt or amend their accessory dwelling unit (ADU) ordinances to permit at least two ADUs on all residentially zoned lots, following certain conditions. It also stipulates that any new or amended private covenants recorded after May 28, 2024, cannot restrict the number of ADUs on residentially zoned lots. Furthermore, the bill compels counties to adjust their ordinances if they do not wish to lose the ability to deny permit applications based solely on exceeding housing unit limits, provided that necessary infrastructure is met.
House Bill 541 addresses urban development regulations specific to counties in Hawaii with a population of fewer than 500,000 residents. It proposes significant changes to land use and zoning laws by entrusting the county agency responsible for land use, or a designated officer, with the authority to handle applications for subdivision, consolidation, or resubdivision of fully zoned residential parcels. This aims to streamline the approval process and encourage housing development in line with recent planning studies, which have indicated a necessity for additional housing inventory within the state.
However, there are points of contention surrounding this bill. Critics argue that it could lead to overdevelopment in urban areas, stressing local infrastructure and services. They express concerns about potential negative impacts on neighborhood character and the environment if regulations are relaxed in favor of expedited housing solutions. Proponents, conversely, assert that these measures are critical for addressing the housing shortage crisis and promoting sustainable urban development in areas where housing demand significantly outpaces supply.