HI SR174

Urges Maui County to actively enforce Fire Code subsection 10.13.2, which was adopted in December 2024 and addresses fire hazards, brush clearance, fuel breaks, roadside vegetation clearing, and emergency access following the 2023 Maui wildfires.

Requests prioritization of enforcement on large parcels, properties adjacent to residential communities and temporary housing sites for wildfire survivors, parcels bordering major evacuation corridors, and areas where overgrown vegetation poses heightened risks.

Notes the Fire Code requires property owners to maintain 30-100 feet of brush clearance from structures based on vegetation height, with brush cleared to under 18 inches on lots one-half acre or smaller when violations occur.

Highlights that violations may result in fines up to $1,000 per day and criminal penalties, and urges the County to use all available inspection, citation, abatement, and enforcement tools.

Directs certified copies be transmitted to the Mayor of Maui County, the Fire Chief, the Maui Emergency Management Agency Administrator, and the Maui County Council Chair.