HI HB2812

Establishes an ecotourism permit program administered by the Department of Land and Natural Resources requiring ecotourism operators to meet department guidelines for health, safety, and environmental protection, including compliance with environmental review requirements.

Makes a valid ecotourism permit a prerequisite for obtaining a business license to operate ecotourism activities in Hawaii.

Requires existing ecotourism operators to obtain a permit by December 31, 2017.

Creates an environmental activities special fund to receive permit fees and other revenue, with up to 10% allocated for administrative costs and the remainder divided equally between the Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement and the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands.

Authorizes the department to charge reasonable permit fees and adopt administrative rules to implement the program.