The state Land Board today approved new rules for 'Iolani Palace meant to protect the historic building and its contents in the wake of two recent takeovers of the grounds.

The rules will now go to the governor and state attorney general for final approval.

Dan Quinn, state parks administrator, said activities at 'Iolani Palace had formerly been subject to state parks rules. The new rules spell out prohibited activities on palace grounds, including "unauthorized occupation of any structure on the grounds."

In meetings statewide, some groups had testified against the new rules, saying the state did not have jurisdiction over the grounds and that it should be self-governed by those of Hawaiian ancestry. But testimony this morning to the Land Board was supportive of the changes, which will not go into effect for several weeks.

Kippen de Alba Chu, executive director of the Friends of 'Iolani Palace, said the rules are the first step in making sure the historic grounds and the artifacts in the palace are protected. The group is also investing in new security measures.

Twice in recent months the grounds have been taken over. In August, some 25 members of a Hawaiian activist group took over 'Iolani Palace, leading to several arrests and the assault of a female palace employee. In April, a different Hawaiian group also took over the palace grounds. It later secured a permit to gather near the palace.

To read the new rules, go to www.hawaii.gov/dlnr/chair/meeting/submittals/080926 and click on the 'Iolani Palace agenda item.