Why parking and loading rules exist

(a) The purpose of off-street parking and loading standards is to provide: (1) Regulations and guidance regarding off-street parking and loading; (2) Regulations to assist with satisfying the goals of the Oahu general plan, development plans, sustainable communities plans, neighborhood transit-oriented development plans, Oahu resilience strategy, and other adopted city plans and policies; and (3) Regulations to create opportunities to reduce housing and development costs and support multimodal communities. (b) The intent of parking and loading standards is to: (1) Ensure the provision of sufficient off-street parking and loading spaces in lots and structures that contribute to attractive, environmentally sound, and pedestrian-friendly streetscapes; (2) Provide mechanisms and incentives to encourage the development of a more sustainable and multimodal transportation network, and encourage the use of transportation options to reduce congestion, improve pedestrian safety, and enhance the quality of the environment; and (3) Provide reasonable flexibility to ensure that environmental, economic, and technical concerns are given appropriate consideration in decision-making. (c) Off-street parking and loading spaces must be provided as required by this article. (d) Unless otherwise specified in this article, the term "parking spaces" refers to motor vehicle parking spaces, and the term "vehicle" refers to motor vehicles.