201H Development Assistance

Summary of Hawaiʻi’s 201H Affordable Housing Process

Chapter 201H of the Hawaiʻi Revised Statutes (HRS) enables the HHFDC to collaborate with private developers to expedite the production of affordable housing across the state.

What is HHFDC?

The mission of the Hawaiʻi Housing Finance and Development Corporation (HHFDC) is to increase and preserve the supply of affordable housing. Beyond financial tools like tax credits and low-interest loans, Chapter 201H empowers HHFDC to streamline project reviews and seek exemptions from certain laws, zoning ordinances, and construction standards.

Important Note: HHFDC does not initiate 201H requests. The process is entirely developer-driven.

The 201H Expedited Process

This process provides design flexibility and cost savings to make projects financially viable.

1. Initiation: Developer submits the 201H request.
2. Review: HHFDC staff or County planning departments review for compliance.
3. Board Action: The HHFDC Board votes on whether to forward a recommendation.
4. Final Authority: The respective City/County Council holds final approval authority.

Core Criteria for 201H

  • Affordability: At least 50% plus one unit must be affordable at 140% AMI or below.
  • Safety: Must meet all minimum health and safety standards.
  • Buyback/SAE: For-sale units are subject to HHFDC buyback and Shared Appreciation Equity requirements.
  • Community Input: Developers must hold at least one public meeting prior to submission.

Timelines & Public Participation

The 45-Day Rule: Legislative bodies (County Councils or the Land Use Commission) must act on a 201H application within 45 days, or it is automatically deemed approved.

Public Input: Residents can participate by attending mandatory developer meetings and providing testimony at HHFDC Board, City/County Council, or Land Use Commission hearings.

Contact & Resources