Hawaii’s Department of Land and Natural Resources has issued citations to vendors at Opaekaa Falls and Wailua Falls and is reminding the public that it is illegal to sell goods on state land without a permit. 

DNLR has noticed a significant increase in illegal commercial activity, including selling crafts and other merchandise, throughout Kauai County, according to a press release issued by the department on Thursday. 

“‘Commercial activity’ means the use of or activity in a state park for which compensation is received by any person for goods or services or both rendered to customers or participants in that use or activity,” said DLNR Chair William Aila in a prepared statement. “These activities include display of merchandise, demanding or requesting gifts, money, or services. Illegal vending impacts a visitor’s experience to Hawaii State Parks by decreasing accessibility, devaluing the wilderness experience, and overusing resources.”   

From DLNR: 

Commercial activities also include activities whose base of operations are outside the boundaries of the state park, or provide transportation to or from the state park. 

Violation of this rule is a petty misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of up to $1,000 and/or 30 days in jail. Any materials, tools, equipment, or vehicles used in the violation may also be subject to seizure and forfeiture by DLNR.   

Photo: Wailua Falls (Wikimedia Commons)

— Sophie Cocke