It’s That Time Again: Kauai TVR Renewal Season Is Here – What You Need to Know for 2025

It’s that time of year again — Transient Vacation Rental (TVR) renewal season is officially here. If you operate a TVR outside of the Visitor Destination Area (VDA), now’s the time to double-check your expiration date, get your paperwork in order, and ensure everything is submitted on time to the County of Kauaʻi Planning Department.

While it’s a common misconception that there are a large number of vacation rentals outside the VDA, the reality is that only about 443 TVRs are legally permitted in those areas. Every year, I hear stories of owners who lose their permits simply because they missed the deadline — don’t let that happen to you. If you have any questions about the renewal process, I’m always here to help!

 Important Dates to Know

Most TVR permits must be renewed by July 31, which means your completed application and documents are due no later than July 1, 2025 — 30 days in advance.

 Heads-up: Some permits have different renewal dates, and the County does not send reminders. Be sure to check your expiration date now and set your own alert.

 Look up your TVR status here:
www.kauai.gov/Planning-Department/Transient-Vacation-Rentals

 What’s New for 2025?

The County has updated the renewal process with a few new requirements:

 New Requirement: You must now include a copy of your property’s Tax Classification, available at www.kauaipropertytax.com.

 Submission Methods: Renewal applications can now be submitted via USPS, FedEx, UPS, or in person at the Planning Department.

 Incomplete Applications: Will be returned to your mailing address — no exceptions.

 No Grace Period for Late Renewals:
If you miss your deadline, your TVNC license will be revoked. You’ll no longer be legally authorized to operate as a short-term rental — making this one of the most important tasks to complete each year. Set reminders early and stay ahead.

 What Your TVR Renewal Application Must Include:

• Completed Renewal Application Form
• $750 Non-Refundable Renewal Fee
  Payable by check or money order to: “Director of Finance”
• Tax Classification Document
  Download from kauaipropertytax.com
• State Tax Forms (Unredacted)
  • General Excise/Use Annual Return & Reconciliation
  • Transient Accommodations Tax Annual Return & Reconciliation
• Fire Safety Requirement
  • Photo of 5 lb. multi-purpose A:B:C fire extinguisher mounted near an exit
• TVR Signage Photos
  • Close-up showing TVNC# and 24/7 on-island contact
  • Photo of the sign from the public right-of-way
• Property Photos
  • Photo from the main road
  • Side view of main structure
• Emergency Evacuation Route
  • Route from your property to the nearest public shelter
• Advertising Documentation
  • Links to each online listing that includes your TVNC#
  • For tsunami evacuation zones:
    • Confirmation that renters are notified of evacuation procedures
    • Include a hard copy of this notice
• If Zoned Agricultural (If Applicable):
  • Proof of $1M liability insurance
  • Signed affidavit of compliance with Conditions of Approval
  • Annual report & recent farm activity photos

 How to Submit Your Application:

Submit up to four (4) months prior to your permit’s expiration date via:

 Mail (USPS, FedEx, or UPS)
OR
 In Person at:
County of Kauaʻi Planning Department
4444 Rice Street, Suite A473
Līhuʻe, HI 96766
 (808) 241-4050

 Reminder: Incomplete applications will be returned.

 Final Reminder: No Permit = No Operation

Operating a TVR outside the VDA without a valid permit is unlawful and can result in civil or criminal penalties. There is no grace period — if you miss your renewal, you lose your license. Period.

Whether you’re a first-time applicant or a long-time permit holder, now’s the time to gather your documents and submit early. A little prep now can save you a major headache later!

Property Spot Light: 3704 Anini – Kai Hale Vacation Rental

Beachfront at beautiful Anini Beach, this home is perfectly designed to take full advantage of its premier location. Kai Hale is surrounded by a lush, Hawaiian garden and meticulously manicured landscape, plus 180 feet of beachfront .

Attention to detail is obvious both indoors and out. Every room has wonderful ocean views and the lavish use of marble and hardwood throughout this split-level home adds to its elegance. Nearly disappearing glass walls on two sides of the great room open onto the spacious wrap-around lanai where it is easy to enjoy the gentle ocean breezes. New (January 2024) furnishings & decor in the living & dining area and new entertainment family room with ping pong table, seating, and large TV to enjoy.

Step down from the lanai to the gardens and beyond to the beach and ocean. Have a picnic lunch, build sandcastles, stroll along the coastline or simply lounge on the warm sand and let the waves roll in. Watch offshore for humpback whales in winter and playful dolphins year-round. After a dip in the ocean or walk down the beach, you will appreciate the convenience of the remodeled hot & cold outdoor shower.

Seemingly endless Anini Beach has a large, offshore reef and is well known for a variety of ocean activities including windsurfing, fishing, seasonal swimming and snorkeling.

Nightly rate varies on season and holiday dates. If you are interested in learning more about this vacation rental or have questions on the TVR renewal process feel free to reach out.