PUKALANI - The county Planning Department and the Maui Vacation Rental Association will present an informational forum on the new bed-and-breakfast ordinance from 6 to 9:30 p.m. March 4 at the Mayor Hannibal Tavares Community Center, The Maui News reported today.

The forum will provide general information on the permitting process and specific information for those seeking to apply for a permit.

Bed-and-breakfast businesses are allowed in residential, rural and agricultural districts.

Association board member Tom Croly said: "It is our hope that those members of the public who are interested in offering short-term rental accommodations in their homes will take the time to familiarize themselves with the new law and then consider legalizing their businesses by applying for the new permits."

Planning Director Jeff Hunt said: "Now that the new law is in place, we look forward to helping potential applicants and their neighbors understand what steps and requirements are involved."

Planning Department staff will present information on the types of properties likely to qualify for a permit, application requirements, permit-processing expectations, limits on the number of permits allowed and requirements for agricultural-zoned properties.

The association represents the home-based vacation rental industry on Maui.

For more information, see the county Web site at www.mauicounty.gov or the association's at www.mvra.net.