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Hawaiʻi Rental Rules: Stay Lengths & Taxes

How stay lengths work on each island, what taxes to expect, and where to find the official rules.

Whether you’re renting or listing a home, the rules depend on the island and the property. Here’s the general picture, with links to the official sources.

Last reviewed November 2026 · By the Hawaii Monthly Rental team

Stay lengths by island (county rules)

IslandMost homes and condos in residential areas (county rule)
Oʻahu 90 days or more
Maui County 180 days or more
Hawaiʻi Island (Big Island) More than 180 days
Kauaʻi More than 180 days

Shorter stays are possible in resort areas and at properties with county approval or registration. There’s no upper limit, and furnished year-long leases are common. Each listing shows the minimum its owner offers.

Taxes: six months or more usually costs less

Stays under 180 consecutive days are generally taxed like a hotel stay: an 11% state transient accommodations tax, a 3% county tax, and general excise tax (up to 4.712% passed on), close to 19% on top of rent. At 180 days or more, you’ll generally pay only the general excise tax.

On $4,000 a month, that’s roughly $750 in monthly taxes for a shorter stay versus under $190 for six months or more. Ask the owner to list taxes separately in your agreement.

Before you sign

For renters

  • Check each listing’s minimum stay. If a home offers shorter stays than is usual for the island, it’s fine to ask why it qualifies.
  • Get the dates, total cost, taxes, and deposit in writing before you pay.
  • Never pay by wire transfer or gift card. Our Find a Rental page has more tips for spotting scams.

Listing a home

For owners

  • You’re responsible for the county and state rules that apply to your property, including zoning, permits, registration, and taxes.
  • When you list your property , we’ll ask you to confirm the minimum stay you offer.
  • Show taxes clearly in your rental agreement so renters know the full cost.

Rental Rules FAQ

Who is responsible for following the rules?

The owner. Owners confirm their minimum stay and any permits or registration when they list. Renters can always ask how a home qualifies.

Are taxes included in the rent?

Sometimes. Ask the owner whether the quoted rent includes taxes, and get the breakdown in your rental agreement.

Do these rules change?

Yes. Counties update their rules from time to time, so we review this page regularly and link to the official sources below.

About this site

Hawaii Monthly Rental is a directory and guide. We’re not real estate agents or advisors, we don’t handle bookings or payments, and we don’t verify every listing. Rental agreements are between renters and owners. This page is general information, not legal or tax advice. Rules change, so check the official sources below or talk with a qualified professional.

Official Sources

Spot something out of date? Let us know .