Glossary · Cultural & historic preservation

HAR Chapter 13-300 (Island Burial Councils)

Hawaiʻi Administrative Rules Chapter 13-300

HAR Chapter 13-300 is the administrative-rules framework for Hawaiʻi's island burial councils and for the treatment of Native Hawaiian burial sites. The councils make determinations on the preservation or relocation of previously identified burials and provide the consultation channel for descendants.

Hawaiʻi has regional island burial councils that review and make determinations about previously identified Native Hawaiian burial sites — whether they are preserved in place or, in limited circumstances, relocated — with the participation of recognized lineal and cultural descendants.

The council process is distinct from the inadvertent-discovery path under HRS §6E-43.6: §6E-43.6 covers remains found unexpectedly, while the councils under Chapter 13-300 address the treatment of burials that have been identified and are subject to a preservation determination.

What it means for a parcel

Where a project may affect a burial site, the burial-council process adds a consultation and determination step that can materially affect schedule and design. It is one more reason to understand a parcel's cultural-resource sensitivity before committing to a plan — while respecting that burial locations are not something to be catalogued or queried.

What is an island burial council in Hawaiʻi?

A regional council, operating under HAR Chapter 13-300, that makes determinations on the preservation or relocation of previously identified Native Hawaiian burial sites, with descendant participation.

This is a plain-language reference, not legal advice. KILO is a pre-development screening tool, not a system of record — confirm any determination with the agency of jurisdiction.

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