Short-Term Rental Regulations — Hawaii
Hosts in Honolulu must obtain a permit before listing their property on platforms like Airbnb or VRBO. The permit fee is $1000, renewable Annual. Honolulu allows non-owner-occupied short-term rentals, giving investors and property managers more flexibility. There is no annual day cap on rentals in Honolulu. An occupancy tax of 17.75% applies to all short-term rental income. Hosts are responsible for collecting and remitting this tax directly.
Day Limit Notes
Rentals under 30 (often 90) days require a Nonconforming Use Certificate (NUC), which are rarely issued.
⚠ Tax Notes
10.25% TAT, 3% County TAT, and 4.5% GET.
⚠ Prohibited Zones
Strictly prohibited outside designated resort districts without a grandfathered NUC.
Do I need a permit to run an Airbnb in Honolulu?
Yes. Honolulu requires a permit to operate a short-term rental. The permit fee is $1000 and must be renewed Annual. You must obtain this permit before listing your property on Airbnb, VRBO, or other platforms.
What is the occupancy tax rate for short-term rentals in Honolulu?
Short-term rentals in Honolulu are subject to a 17.75% occupancy tax. Hosts are responsible for collecting this tax from guests and remitting it to the local tax authority. Check with the city for registration and filing requirements. 10.25% TAT, 3% County TAT, and 4.5% GET.
Can I rent out a property I don't live in as an Airbnb in Honolulu?
Yes. Honolulu allows non-owner-occupied short-term rentals, meaning you can list investment properties or second homes that you do not personally occupy.
How many days per year can I rent my property in Honolulu?
Honolulu does not impose an annual day cap on short-term rentals. You can rent your property for as many days as you choose, subject to other local regulations. Rentals under 30 (often 90) days require a Nonconforming Use Certificate (NUC), which are rarely issued.
Does Airbnb collect occupancy taxes in Honolulu?
No. In Honolulu, hosts are responsible for collecting the 17.75% occupancy tax from guests and remitting it to the appropriate tax authority. You will need to register with the city and file tax returns on your own schedule.
Are there any prohibited zones for short-term rentals in Honolulu?
Yes. Honolulu prohibits short-term rentals in certain areas: Strictly prohibited outside designated resort districts without a grandfathered NUC.. Always verify your property's zoning status with the local planning department before listing.
Do I need to register my short-term rental in Honolulu?
Yes. Honolulu requires short-term rental hosts to register their property with the city. This is separate from any permit requirement and typically involves providing property information and contact details to the local authority.
Official Source
Honolulu City Government
Last verified: 2026-03-23 · Always confirm with your local government before listing.