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WHAT’S IN A NAME? Understanding ADU’s, ARU’s and Guest Houses on Kauai

Nancy Jane Williams


Accessory dwelling units are sometimes called granny flats, ‘ohana units, guest cottages and in-law suites. But county rules distinguish between ADUs and other types of secondary dwellings. ADU: - Accessory dwelling unit/additional dwelling unit: A secondary residential unit attached to the main house or detached, with its own kitchen, bedroom and bathroom facilities. ADUs can be rented to anyone regardless of their relation to the homeowner. ʻOhana unit: A secondary dwelling that can only be occupied by family members. Honolulu is the only county that distinguishes between an ADU and an ‘ohana unit. Guest house: A second unit on a property that is less than 500 square feet and generally does not have kitchen facilities. Honolulu, Kaua‘i and Hawai‘i counties regulate them. Kaua‘i is the only county that allows kitchens in its guest houses. ARU: Kaua‘i County’s Affordable ARU program only applies to additional rental units whose rents do not exceed the maximum housing cost based on 90% of Kaua‘i’s median household income. On A-zoned property (agricultural) ARUs are not currently permitted.


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© 2022 by Nancy Jane Williams FIND YOUR KAUAI HOME

Nancy Jane Williams, RB#23747

Phone 808-346-7173

nancy@residekauai.com

Broker In Charge / Proud agent of Reside Kauai, LLC

P.O. Box 624 5-5190 Kuhio Hwy Ste. B-6, Hanalei, HI. 96714

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