Are Short-Term Rentals Legal on Maui? A Clear Guide for Buyers & Investors

Are short-term rentals legal on Maui in 2025?
Yes—but only in designated zoning areas and approved properties. Maui County enforces strict short-term rental regulations to balance tourism with housing needs, so knowing the rules is essential before you buy.

What Is a Short-Term Rental on Maui?

On Maui, any property rented for 180 days or less is considered a short-term rental. This includes listings on Airbnb, Vrbo, and similar platforms.

Whether you’re eyeing a beachside condo or a tucked-away bungalow in Haiku, if you plan to rent it out short-term, Maui County law applies—and those laws are specific.  

Currently Maui county is taking action to revoke a legal exemption from the 1990s to sort term rent condos in apartment zoning.  This legislation passed it's initial draft last week, and is now being clarified and looking at a final vote very soon.  This list of 7167 apartment zoned condos is called the Minatoya list.

Why Maui Enforces Short-Term Rental Restrictions

Maui faces a deep housing shortage, and the County has taken action.  

To help preserve communities, the County is attempting to create a framework that limits where short-term rentals are legal where they are not.  Specifically in the Hotel, Commercial, and Resort zones. 

Two Main Legal Paths for STRs on Maui

1. Hotel-Zoned Condos and Business Zoned Condos.
   These are the easiest route. Properties in Hotel or Resort zones—like parts of Wailea, Kaanapali, or North Kihei—are generally pre-approved for vacation rentals. Same with Business zoned condos.  No extra permits required.  

2. Short-Term Rental Home (STRH) Permits
   For single-family homes outside resort areas, you’ll need a County-issued permit. These are limited, must be renewed yearly, and are subject to neighborhood density caps. Even then, some neighborhoods flat-out prohibit STRs.  Currently there is a moratorium on issuing these permits.

⚠️ Don’t Assume a Property is Legal for Short-Term Use

Before making an offer, confirm:

• ✅ Zoning designation (Hotel, Apartment, Residential, etc.)

• ✅ Approved building or permit status (Check Maui County STR maps)

• ✅ Legacy use certificate, if applicable

Some areas may look like vacation rental hubs—but may not be legally zoned for it if the current legislation passes.

Why This Matters for Buyers & Investors

Buying a property that’s not STR-compliant can lead to:

• ❌ Fines or legal action from Maui County

• ❌ Forced closure of your rental

• ❌ Friction with neighbors or HOAs

• ❌ Lower resale value and diminished ROI

From the Field: Benjamin Finnerty’s Take

As a Maui-based REALTOR®, I’ve helped dozens of clients navigate this exact issue.

Here’s what I always say: Don’t rely on assumptions, hearsay, or outdated listings.
Legal use on paper—and in the County system—is what matters.

If you’re considering a short-term rental investment on Maui, let’s make sure it’s 100% legal and actually pencils out.

I can help you:

• ✅ Pinpoint STR-approved condos 

• ✅ Evaluate income potential

• ✅ Avoid costly missteps with zoning or permits

Final Thoughts

Short-term rentals can be smart investments on Maui—but they only work if they’re legal.

With new enforcement efforts underway in 2025, it’s never been more important to do your due diligence and work with a local expert who knows the rules, neighborhoods, and approval process inside and out.

Ready to Find a Legal Vacation Rental?

Contact me, Benjamin Finnerty, today. I’ll help you locate and evaluate the best short-term rental opportunities—so you can invest confidently in Maui.