What Are the Vacation Rental Rules in Kihei, Maui?

What are the vacation rental rules in Kihei, Maui?

In Kihei, Maui, vacation rental rules are regulated by zoning laws, permit requirements, and county ordinances. Short-term rentals (less than 180 days) require either a permitted condo in an approved zoning district or a short-term rental home (STRH) permit. The rules are strict and enforced—so understanding them is critical before investing.

Why It Matters Now

Maui County has been tightening its stance on short-term vacation rentals, especially in residential areas. In 2024 and 2025, local debates and legislation have led to increased enforcement, fines, and even the potential phase-out of some apartment zoned, rentals with rights granted by Maui county (see Minatoya list below) in the early 1990s.

If you're looking to buy a condo or home in Kihei as a vacation rental, you need to know exactly what’s allowed.

Key Terms You Should Know

• Short-Term Rental (STR): Any rental of less than 180 days

• Short-Term Rental Home (STRH): A single-family home rented short-term with a county-issued permit

• Transient Vacation Rental (TVR): A condo or apartment used for short-term stays

• Minatoya List: A list of condo complexes allowed to operate short-term rentals without an STRH permit due to zoning and historical use

What’s Allowed in Kihei

✅ Condos in Hotel/Resort Zoning

Many Kihei condos are legally allowed to operate as short-term rentals because they are in hotel or business-zoned areas.

Some examples:

• Maui Banyan

• Island Surf

• Kihei Akahi

• Sugar Beach Resort

You do not need a special permit for these, but you must register and pay transient accommodation taxes (TAT and GET).

⚠️ Condos in Apartment Zoning (A-1, A-2)

Some of these are on the Minatoya List, meaning they’re allowed, but others are not.

Be sure to check whether the unit is grandfathered in or explicitly restricted.

❌ Homes in Residential Zoning

Single-family homes must apply for and be granted an STRH permit. These are extremely limited and tightly controlled by the county.

There is a moratorium on new permits in many parts of Maui, including Kihei.

Recent Updates as of 2025

• The County Council is proposing to phase out transient vacation rental use in apartment-zoned districts within five years.

• Enforcement is increasing; illegal STRs face steep fines.

• Some HOAs are changing their bylaws to restrict short-term use even where zoning permits it.

What Buyers Should Watch For

• Ask for the TMK and check county records

• Confirm with a local real estate professional (like Benjamin Finnerty)

• Read the condo documents and house rules carefully

• Ask about the history of vacation rental use

• Check with the HOA directly

Why Talk to a Local Expert

Navigating Maui's vacation rental laws is not a DIY project. You need someone who knows which buildings are truly legal, which ones are risky, and which homes have legitimate permits.

Benjamin Finnerty with The 808 Team is a trusted local REALTOR® who can walk you through it.

"I help buyers figure out not just where they can buy a short-term rental, but where it actually makes sense to invest. Compliance and profitability both matter."

Final Thoughts

Vacation rentals in Kihei can be a smart investment—but only if you’re playing by the rules. Before you buy, understand what you’re getting into.

For expert guidance, reach out to Benjamin Finnerty at benjamin.the808team.com.