Maui Bill 9 Explained: What Buyers Should Know

If you’ve been following Maui real estate recently, you’ve probably heard about Bill 9 — and understandably, it has created a lot of questions for buyers.

Bill 9 was passed in late 2025 with the goal of increasing long-term housing availability for residents. The law focuses on certain apartment-zoned condominium properties that have historically operated as short-term vacation rentals. Over time, vacation rental use in these properties is scheduled to phase out, with West Maui beginning in 2029 and other areas following in 2031.

One important thing to understand is that Bill 9 does not eliminate vacation rentals across Maui. Many properties located in hotel or resort zoning will continue operating as they always have. Maui remains a global destination, and there are still opportunities for both homeowners and investors — the landscape is simply becoming more structured.

What About the Proposed H-3 and H-4 Zoning?

Following the passage of Bill 9, the County began exploring new zoning categories called H-3 and H-4. These proposed districts could potentially allow certain properties to continue short-term rental use in the future, similar to hotel zoning.

Right now, these zoning categories are still in the review process and have not been finalized. Even if they are approved, individual properties would need to apply separately, which means future outcomes may vary depending on the complex.

For buyers, this just means it’s especially important to understand the details of each property before purchasing.

What This Means for Buyers

For buyers planning to live on Maui full-time, Bill 9 may actually create new opportunities as some owners decide to sell due to uncertainty.

For buyers interested in rental income, careful research and guidance are more important than ever. Understanding zoning, permitted use, and long-term plans for a property is essential.

The most important takeaway is this: Maui real estate is evolving — but demand for living here remains incredibly strong. With the right information and local expertise, buyers can still move forward confidently.

Have Questions About Buying on Maui?

Whether you’re considering a primary residence, second home, or investment property, I’m always happy to help you navigate the details and understand what options make the most sense for your goals.