HI HB1397

Removes the requirement that residential lots be "zoned for residential use" in order to qualify for leasehold-to-fee-simple conversion under chapter 516, Hawaii Revised Statutes.

Amends the definitions of "lot," "houselot," "residential lot," and "residential houselot" to apply to parcels of two acres or less that are used or intended to be used as a principal residence, regardless of zoning designation.

Enables residents of Ahupua'a O Kahana state park (a conservation district property zoned as preservation) to pursue conversion of their 65-year leases to fee-simple ownership, which was previously prohibited due to the zoning restriction.

Applies to approximately 28 active leases and 6 conditional leases in Kahana valley, where residents have occupied properties since the 1960s and perform 25 hours monthly of interpretive park services in lieu of rent.

Takes effect on July 1, 2019.