HomeMy WebLinkAbout1_Public Overview_SMA Boundary AmendmentProposed Special Management Area Boundary Amendment -
Kapoho, Lower Puna
The County of Hawaii Planning Department is proposing an amendment to the Special
Management Area (SMA) boundary in the Kapoho area of Lower Puna to reflect significant
changes to the coastline resulting from the 2018 Kilauea Lower East Rift Zone eruption.
The eruption created extensive new land along the coastline, moving the shoreline
approximately 0.5 to 0.75 miles seaward of its former location. As a result, portions of the
existing SMA boundary, last amended in 1980, no longer reflect current coastal conditions.
In response to a request from the Vacationland Hawaii Community Association, the
Planning Director initiated a review of the existing boundary pursuant to Section 205A-23,
Hawaii Revised Statutes, and Planning Commission Rule 9-23.
The proposed amendment would relocate portions of the SMA boundary seaward to reflect
the present coastline while maintaining SMA protections for lands associated with the
current coastal environment. The amendment is limited to the area identified on the
proposed maps and would not change zoning, authorize development, or affect existing
public access rights. Future development would remain subject to applicable County and
State regulations.
The proposed amendment will be reviewed by the Hawaii County Planning Commission in
accordance with established procedures, including opportunities for public review and
comment.
View the maps below to compare the existing and proposed SMA boundaries and the
changes to the Kapoho coastline resulting from the 2018 eruption.