HI SB2639

Allows the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) to permit lessees to settle on awarded homestead lots in temporary structures for up to five years while constructing a permanent dwelling.

Temporary structures include mobile homes, yurts, pre-fabricated homes, container homes, and structures using indigenous Hawaiian architectural practices, but exclude motor vehicles and camping tents.

Requires temporary structures to meet basic habitation standards including potable water and toilet facilities, and mandates that permanent dwellings be legally permitted and completed within five years of lease award.

Permanent dwellings must comply with applicable county building codes and permitting requirements, or alternatively employ indigenous Hawaiian architectural practices as defined in Hawaii Revised Statutes section 46-1.55.

Directs DHHL to adopt rules under chapter 91, Hawaii Revised Statutes, and conduct a public awareness campaign to educate communities about the law, effective July 1, 2012.