Hawaii Statewide Rule
Hawaii Agricultural Zoning: State Land Use Districts
Key Facts
- Districts
- HRS 205 establishes four land use districts
- Agriculture
- District protects farming, aquaculture
- Amendment Process
- Land Use Commission approves boundaries
- Important Lands
- Enhanced protection for IALs
Summary
Hawaii uniquely classifies all land statewide into four state land use districts under HRS Chapter 205, with the Agricultural District protecting farmland and limiting non-agricultural uses across the state.
§205-4.5 Permissible uses within the agricultural districts. (a) Within the agricultural district, all lands with soil classified by the land study bureau's detailed land classification as overall (master) productivity rating class A or B and for solar energy facilities, class B or C, shall be restricted to the following permitted uses: (1) Cultivation of crops, including crops for bioenergy, flowers, vegetables, foliage, fruits, forage, and timber; (2) Game and fish propagation; (3) Raising of livestock, including poultry, bees, fish, or other animal or aquatic life that are propagated for economic or personal use;
Full Breakdown
Hawaii's land use system, established by HRS Chapter 205, classifies every parcel into one of four state land use districts: Urban, Rural, Agricultural, and Conservation. The Agricultural District restricts development to farming, livestock, aquaculture, agricultural-support facilities, and limited related accessory uses. The State Land Use Commission must approve boundary amendments to reclassify agricultural land for non-farm uses, providing strong statewide protection for working lands. Counties further regulate within state classifications via their general plans and zoning. Important Agricultural Lands designated under HRS 205-44 receive heightened protection. The dual layer of state and county oversight makes farmland conversion in Hawaii unusually difficult compared to mainland states, supporting long-term food security.
Violations & Penalties
Unauthorized non-agricultural use in the Agricultural District violates HRS 205-13 and county zoning, with fines and injunctive relief available.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is farmland zoned in Hawaii?
Can agricultural land be rezoned?
What are Important Agricultural Lands?
Sources
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