Understanding O‘ahu’s New 90-Day Minimum Rental Rule: What You Need to Know
If you own or rent property in O‘ahu, there’s an important change coming that you need to be aware of. Starting September 30, 2025, the minimum rental period for most residential properties will be 90 days. This new regulation is designed to protect local housing and prevent short-term rentals from dominating residential areas.
What Does This Mean for Property Owners and Renters?
The new law states that unless a property is located in a legally zoned short-term rental (STR) area or has a valid Nonconforming Use Certificate (NUC), it cannot be rented for fewer than 90 days.
This is a significant change for homeowners and investors who have been relying on short-term vacation rentals, such as those listed on Airbnb or Vrbo, in areas where these rentals are not explicitly permitted. Now, they must either comply with the 90-day minimum rental requirement or ensure they are operating within designated short-term rental zones.
Why the Change?
Hawai‘i has been facing a housing crisis, with many locals struggling to find affordable places to live. By enforcing a 90-day minimum rental, the goal is to limit the number of short-term vacation rentals in residential neighborhoods, helping to keep homes available for long-term residents.
City officials have expressed concerns that the rise of short-term rentals has contributed to higher housing costs, making it more difficult for locals to secure housing. This change aims to shift the rental market toward longer-term leases, providing stability for both renters and communities.
Who Is Affected?
This rule will impact:
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Homeowners who previously rented out their properties for less than 90 days
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Investors who rely on short-term vacation rental income
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Renters who were looking for month-to-month lease options under 90 days
Exceptions:
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Properties located in legally zoned short-term rental areas (such as Waikiki’s resort zone)
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Units with a Nonconforming Use Certificate (NUC) that allows short-term rentals
If your property does not fall within these exceptions, you must comply with the new 90-day rental minimum.
How Can You Prepare?
If you’re a property owner who currently offers short-term rentals, now is the time to assess how this rule will impact your rental strategy. Some options include:
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Shifting your rental model to long-term leases (90+ days)
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Checking if your property is in an STR-zoned area or if you qualify for a NUC certificate
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Consulting with a real estate expert to explore alternative investment opportunities
Need Help Understanding Your Property’s Status?
If you’re unsure whether your property qualifies for short-term rentals or needs to follow the new rule, I’m happy to help. Contact me today to check your property’s zoning, compliance, and potential rental strategies moving forward!
Final Thoughts
The September 30, 2025 rental rule change is a big shift for O‘ahu’s real estate landscape. Whether you’re an investor, homeowner, or renter, understanding these new regulations is crucial for staying compliant and making informed real estate decisions.
If you have any questions about how this affects your property, don’t hesitate to reach out! I’m here to help guide you through this transition and ensure you make the best decision for your real estate goals.
