Homeowners planning a large home in Honolulu—or buyers eyeing one—could soon face bathroom caps, proof of owner-occupancy before receiving a certificate of occupancy, and new rules that count more parking area toward a home’s density limit.
The Honolulu City Council introduced Resolution No. 26-150 in June, proposing sweeping new restrictions on large detached homes across the city’s residential zoning districts. The measure responds to longstanding community concerns about large residences—specifically illegal short-term rentals, dormitory-style use, and unpermitted multi-unit conversions.
Bathroom caps and wet bar limits
The most striking piece of the proposal is a hard cap on bathrooms—something rarely regulated anywhere in the country.
On a lot under 7,000 square feet with a single dwelling unit, no more than four bathrooms would be allowed. Lots between 7,000 and 9,999 square feet would max out at six. Only lots of 10,000 square feet or larger could have up to eight…