Legislation would allow for tiny homes on ag land

The future of affordable housing on Hawaii Island could be tiny.

Legislation introduced this session by Rep. Cindy Evans (D- North Kohala, South Kohala, Kona) would allow for so-called “tiny homes” — houses that are less than 500 square feet — to be built on agricultural-zoned land for farm workers. House Bill 2 is specific to Hawaii Island.

A second bill, House Bill 1373, would authorize counties to provide zoning exemptions for tiny houses.

On Saturday, Evans, as well as Hawaii County Councilman Tim Richards and representatives from Hawaii County Councilwoman Jen Ruggles’ office, attended a community meeting hosted by One Island, a South Kona-based sustainabiliy and education organization, to discuss the legislation and how to support local tiny homes.

Held at the Algood Farm in Hawi, the meeting drew about 40 attendees from around the island, with Puna, Hilo, Honokaa and Waimea all represented.

Read more: http://www.westhawaiitoday.com/news/local-news/legislation-would-allow-tiny-homes-ag-land