Lahaina Historic District Development Faces Height Limit Review: Developers Must Engage Now

·5 min read·Act Now

Executive Summary

Proposed changes to building height restrictions in Lahaina's historic district could significantly alter future development potential and property values. Developers and investors must participate in the upcoming public testimony to influence these critical regulations.

  • Real Estate Owners & Developers: Potential for reduced development density and altered project feasibility.
  • Investors: Future valuation of Lahaina properties will be shaped by new height limits.
  • Tourism Operators: Long-term impact on the character and visitor experience of Lahaina.
  • Entrepreneurs: Future business ventures in development or hospitality in Lahaina will be constrained.

Action: Submit testimony to the Maui County Council before the February hearing.

Action Required

High PriorityNext month (public testimony)

Failure to engage with public testimony could lead to a loss of opportunity to influence building regulations that will impact future projects.

Real estate owners, developers, and investors with interests in Lahaina must prepare and submit written or in-person testimony to the Maui County Council regarding the proposed building height limit changes. The deadline for public testimony is the date of the council hearing next month. Focus your testimony on how proposed height limits will impact the economic viability of projects, property values, and the long-term character of the Lahaina National Historic Landmark District. Consult the Maui County Council website for submission procedures and the hearing schedule.

Who's Affected
Real Estate OwnersInvestorsTourism OperatorsEntrepreneurs & Startups
Ripple Effects
  • Potential for reduced new construction density → diminished housing supply → upward pressure on existing property prices.
  • Strict height limits in historic zones → fewer development opportunities → increased developer focus on less constrained areas, potentially shifting investment away from Lahaina.
  • Preservation-focused development → higher per-square-foot construction costs → increased retail and commercial rental rates → impact on small business operating margins.
  • Altered Lahaina skyline → potential impact on tourism appeal and visitor experience → long-term shifts in tourism operator revenue.
Stunning aerial shot of Lahaina, Hawaii coastline during sunset, showcasing vibrant townscape and ocean views.
Photo by Griffin Wooldridge

Lahaina Historic District Development Faces Height Limit Review: Developers Must Engage Now

Executive Brief

Proposed changes to building height restrictions in Lahaina's historic district could significantly alter future development potential and property values. Developers and investors must participate in the upcoming public testimony to influence these critical regulations, as decisions made in the coming weeks will dictate the scale and character of future projects.

  • Real Estate Owners & Developers: Potential for reduced development density and altered project feasibility.
  • Investors: Future valuation of Lahaina properties will be shaped by new height limits.
  • Tourism Operators: Long-term impact on the character and visitor experience of Lahaina.
  • Entrepreneurs: Future business ventures in development or hospitality in Lahaina will be constrained.

Action: Submit testimony to the Maui County Council before the February hearing.

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