Lahaina town has received a notice from the County's Maui Emergency Management Agency (MEMA), urging residents and visitors to stay out of areas clearly marked as off-limits. "Do Not Enter" signs are legally enforced, and those who ignore them may be in violation. Reports have indicated instances of vehicles being left in restricted areas and people entering zones deemed unsafe, according to the county's announcement.
MEMA Administrator Amos Lonokailua-Hewett is urging the public to respect boundaries. In a statement from Maui County, he stressed the importance of staying within accessible areas and avoiding private properties. “We respectfully ask everyone to honor posted signs and barricades that block unsafe areas. Your cooperation is crucial to ensuring safety and respect for all.” Security teams, hired by the county, are keeping an eye out and have orders to report any trespassing they come across.
What are the penalties for violating these restrictions? Trespassing, for one. Unauthorized entry into these areas is prohibited by law. MEMA is focused on addressing current violations while also preventing future risks to safety. The agency continues to remind the public that certain parts of Lahaina town are restricted for safety reasons.
To assist property owners, MEMA is advising them to report trespassing incidents to the Maui Police Department's non-emergency line, providing an additional means of protection. This ensures both safety and respect for the law, as well as the rights of property owners. Property owners and visitors are reminded to be mindful of restricted areas to avoid potential issues or legal consequences.
