The Maui County Water and Infrastructure Committee convened on September 22, 2025, to discuss critical issues surrounding factory-built homes and their compliance with local building codes. The meeting focused on the implications of new legislation affecting the construction and placement of these structures, particularly in the wake of recent disasters.

The discussion began with an overview of the benefits of factory construction, including the ability to work uninterrupted by weather conditions. However, concerns were raised about homeowners' capabilities to assemble these structures on-site. A representative clarified that while state law allows for owner-builder provisions, factory-built homes have specific restrictions that prevent individuals from acting as their own builders unless they meet stringent requirements.

Key points included the necessity for factory-built homes to comply with Maui County's building codes, which require designs to be stamped by licensed Hawaii architects or structural engineers. This ensures that all structures are adequately engineered to withstand local environmental conditions, including high winds and potential hurricanes. The committee emphasized that even if a structure is prefabricated off-island, it must still adhere to local standards upon arrival in Hawaii.

Members discussed the challenges of ensuring that factory-built homes are designed to meet the varying conditions across Maui, particularly in areas with specific wind restrictions. The committee acknowledged that while factory manufacturers could choose to design for the worst conditions, this could limit their marketability and production costs.

The meeting also touched on the temporary permits issued for prefab homes in burn areas over the past five years. It was noted that these temporary structures cannot transition to permanent dwellings without undergoing proper inspections and meeting the necessary requirements.

In conclusion, the committee's discussions highlighted the balance between facilitating innovative housing solutions through factory-built homes and ensuring compliance with safety and building standards. The next steps involve further clarifications on the legislation and continued dialogue on how to effectively implement these regulations while addressing community needs.