The DLNR Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement (DOCARE) cited Bumper Productions LLC for a pair of violations of Division of State Parks (DSP ) rules during taping of the reality series, “Rescue: HI Surf.”

Utilizing the new Civil Resource Violation System (CRVS), the production company was fined $525, the maximum amount allowed under CRVS. The production was also ordered to repair and mitigate damage caused at Ka‘iwi State Scenic Shoreline in East O‘ahu earlier this year.

On February 16, DSP was notified of a possible special use permit violation associated with the filming of the TV series. Two DSP staff and two DOCARE officers went to Kaʻiwi to determine if prohibited acts were underway and to assess any damage to natural and cultural resources. 

Two production vehicles were beyond the area permitted for traffic. DSP staff also observed two to three symbolic fence posts knocked over, and areas where vehicle tires had crushed naupaka at the edge of off-limits roads. Vehicles were staged within the boundaries of two archaeological sites, though there did not appear to be any damage to constructed rock features or other historical features.

Bumper Productions’, Rescue: HI Surf, currently has an open state film permit for production activities in the Mokulēʻia Section of Kaʻena Point State Park, on O‘ahu’s North Shore.

In a statement, DLNR Chair Dawn Chang said, “While we recognize and appreciate the importance of the film industry to Hawai‘i’s economy, this situation highlights the need for all production companies to honor and respect the terms of their permit conditions. It is a privilege to use state land, not a right. That privilege can be taken away.

DLNR Photo