Hawaii House Unanimously Passes Bill to Block Building Code Restrictions on Hempcrete

Hempcrete.

The Hawaii House of Representatives has approved a bill that would prevent state and county building codes from prohibiting or limiting the use of hempcrete as a non-structural building material, a change supporters say could help expand affordable and sustainable housing options. House Bill 2151 passed its third reading in the House on March 10 with no opposition, with one lawmaker excused and Representative Amy Perruso voting aye with reservations. The measure was then transmitted to the Senate, where it was officially received today.

The bill would create a new section in state law specifying that no provision of Hawaii’s state building code or any county building code may prohibit or otherwise limit the use of hempcrete as a non-structural building material. It would also allow state and county building officials to approve hempcrete construction without requiring a variance, so long as the proposed use complies with applicable building codes, rules and standards.

Under the measure, hempcrete would be allowed only in non-load-bearing construction. The material and its application would still need to meet requirements tied to fire safety, structural integrity of the overall building system, moisture management and durability, energy efficiency, and health and safety standards. The bill makes clear that hempcrete could not be used as a load-bearing structural element unless otherwise allowed under applicable building codes and standards.

The legislation defines hempcrete as a bio-composite material made from the woody core of industrial hemp, a lime-based binder and water. Lawmakers say the material is fire-resistant, mold-resistant, pest-resistant and breathable, and argue that broader use could reduce regulatory uncertainty while giving builders and homeowners another option for climate-appropriate construction.

If enacted, the measure would take effect July 1.