Hawaii HB356 mandates hurricane-resistant building codes for new homes and apartments in high-wind areas.

Hawaii HB356 amends the state building codes to require new single-family residences and apartment buildings in high-wind areas to withstand specific hurricane categories and include a residential safe room with an attached bathroom. Starting January 1, 2026, buildings in areas expected to experience sustained wind speeds of up to 130 miles per hour must withstand at least a category three hurricane. Those in areas with wind speeds of 140 miles per hour or more must withstand a category five hurricane.

Hawaii HB356 mandates hurricane-resistant building codes for new homes and apartments in high-wind areas.

Hawaii HB356 amends the state building codes to require new single-family residences and apartment buildings in high-wind areas to withstand specific hurricane categories and include a residential safe room with an attached bathroom. Starting January 1, 2026, buildings in areas expected to experience sustained wind speeds of up to 130 miles per hour must withstand at least a category three hurricane. Those in areas with wind speeds of 140 miles per hour or more must withstand a category five hurricane.