H.B. 1347 Summary

• Repeals the existing prohibition on possessing or using unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) for taking aquatic life in state marine waters under Section 188-23.5, Hawaii Revised Statutes.

• Establishes a new permitting system administered by the Department of Land and Natural Resources allowing drone use for fishing purposes, with permit applications, approval criteria, conditions, restrictions, and enforcement penalties.

• Sets permit fees at a minimum of $100 annually per permit, $25 processing fee for first-time applicants, and $10 reissuance fee for lost or damaged permits.

• Authorizes the department to issue citations and fines for unpermitted drone use and seize drones used in violation of the regulations.

• Requires the department to implement the permitting system by September 1, 2026, with intermediate deadlines for task force convening (February 28, 2026), rule drafting (March 31, 2026), finalized rules (April 30, 2026), public education campaign (June 30, 2026), and system testing (August 31, 2025).