Getting Molokai in the Right Zone

County brings zoning inspectors to the island.

In an attempt to simplify and streamline the often confusing zoning process, the County of Maui will bring zoning inspectors to the island once a month.

"These visits will provide additional access to department staff for residents in these distant communities," Mayor Charmaine Tavares said in a press release.

Visiting inspectors will be available to answer questions regarding zoning and enforcement, as well as conduct on-site property inspections. The inspectors will also be available by appointment during each visit, and the department anticipates an initial schedule of eight appointments per visit.

Typical zoning and enforcement issues that are investigated include non-permitted uses under Title 19 of the County Code, such as setbacks, non-permitted TVRs and doing business on properties that do not allow such uses; signage (under Title 16); and doing work in Special Management Areas without prior approval.

Visits to Molokai and Lanai from inspectors with the Zoning Administration and Enforcement Division of the Maui County Planning Department will take part once a month beginning in July.

Molokai visits will be held the second Friday of each month from 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at the Mitchell Pauole Center, located at 100 Ainoa St., Kaunakakai. If the visit falls on a holiday, it will be held the previous Thursday.  However, for the July 11 visit only, office hours will be 9:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. 

For Molokai appointments, contact Tammy Osurman at (808) 270-6194 or the Maui County Planning Department at (808) 270-7253. To call toll-free from Molokai, dial 1-800-272-0117 and ask for extension 6194. 

For more information on the visits, call the Planning Department at 270-7235.