Hawaii
Wow!
Smallest U.S. county requires entry permit
Hawaii is not kidding around. Warning signs are posted along the way. Get a permit or else. - photo by Oscar Voss
Hawaii state law says you cannot enter Kalawao County without permission.
If you enter illegally, you will be fined. Kalawao, on Molokai, is the only such county in the United States.
Also, children under 16 are forbidden to enter Kalawao County unless they are related to a resident. There was a time when none were allowed.
Many people have visited; but you have to go with an authorized tour operator.
Why all these restrictions for the smallest county in the U.S.?
The purpose of the law is to preserve the dignity and protect the privacy of the residents. Historically, individuals in Hawaii who had Hansen's disease, leprosy, were sent to live on Molokai at Kalaupapa.
Over the years, treatment was developed, and isolation no longer is needed. Although the residents may freely travel and live anywhere, many want to stay in the home they have known.
For this reason, Kaluapapa National Historical Park was established. It preserves the history and maintains the community for the residents to live out their lives.
To enter the park, you must get a permit from Damien Tours (808-567-6171) or the Hawaii Department of Health (808-567-6924). Otherwise, entry will be denied.
If you enter illegally, you will be fined. Kalawao, on Molokai, is the only such county in the United States.
Also, children under 16 are forbidden to enter Kalawao County unless they are related to a resident. There was a time when none were allowed.
Many people have visited; but you have to go with an authorized tour operator.
Why all these restrictions for the smallest county in the U.S.?
The purpose of the law is to preserve the dignity and protect the privacy of the residents. Historically, individuals in Hawaii who had Hansen's disease, leprosy, were sent to live on Molokai at Kalaupapa.
Over the years, treatment was developed, and isolation no longer is needed. Although the residents may freely travel and live anywhere, many want to stay in the home they have known.
For this reason, Kaluapapa National Historical Park was established. It preserves the history and maintains the community for the residents to live out their lives.
To enter the park, you must get a permit from Damien Tours (808-567-6171) or the Hawaii Department of Health (808-567-6924). Otherwise, entry will be denied.
