Food trucks, trailers approved in Maui agricultural district
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A new ordinance allowing Maui farmers to operate mobile food trucks and trailers in agricultural districts could open new opportunities for them to sell value-added products grown on Maui.
The Maui County Council passed the ordinance Tuesday, and Mayor Richard Bissen signed it into law Wednesday.
Some farmers had been shut down after being told their mobile food trucks and trailers were not permitted under Maui's agricultural code, and the ordinance's passage could allow some to reopen.
Maui farmer Gale Ashby said his income loss was substantial when his food trailer was shut down about two years ago after it had been previously approved by the county.
"I'm glad the new law passed," Ashby said. "I'll get it going again."
Ashby grows citrus products, dragon fruit and coconut palms. He was selling fruit and dragon fruit smoothies as well as coffee grown on Maui out of his trailer.
Council member Gabe Johnson, who authored the bill, said the new ordinance allows farmers to operate mobile food trucks and trailers without first having to obtain a special permit -- a process that could cost tens of thousands of dollars or more.
"It's now considered an accessory use," said Johnson, chair of the Council Agriculture, Economic Diversity, Environment and Public Transportation Committee.
Johnson said the ordinance will provide more opportunities for local merchants, farmers and small businesses trying to sell their goods and services directly to the public, including those grown, raised and caught in Hawaii.
Sydney Smith, chair of the committee's farm advisory group, was pleased with the passage of the ordinance, and Smith said she looks forward to farmers registering to operate mobile food trucks and trailers.
Under the new ordinance, the number of mobile food truck and trailer operations have been limited to 25 in Hana, and the ordinance does not apply to Molokai or Lanai.
Outside Hana, there are no limits set for Maui on the number of food trucks and trailers on farm-producer lots.
All food must be prepared in accordance with the state Department of Health rules and regulations.