Ask the Mayor: What are the Rules Regarding Police Vehicle Lights?

File photo by Wendy Osher.

Mayor Alan Arakawa answers some of the most-asked questions submitted to his office staff.

Mayor Arakawa,

Q: Lately I’ve seen numerous police vehicles on the island roads not displaying blue lights. I’m aware there are rules for not only the roadways, but for the oceans regarding the display of lights for various vehicles or ocean vessels engaged in certain activities. I understand that in Honolulu it is a rule that police vehicles must always display their blue lights. What are the rules regarding police vehicles displaying blue lights on Maui, and what is the supposed purpose of the police vehicles I’ve seen going “stealth” as they are driving down the road?

A: According to the Maui Police Department, illuminating the blue pilot lights are at the discretion of the officer, supervisor and/or commander. It could be for special events (parades), high crime areas, residential areas and/or where the officer feels a need for greater visibility. The lights may also be turned off for various reasons, including “in-progress” type cases and while conducting surveillance.

Want to Ask the Mayor?

Submit your questions about County of Maui programs, services, operations or policies to Mayor Alan Arakawa via email, by phone at 270-7855 or by mail to 200 S. High St., 9th Floor, Wailuku, HI 96793. Questions submitted will be considered for inclusion in the Ask the Mayor column.