Honolulu allows noncommercial beekeeping on any zoning lot of at least 5,000 sq ft. Hive numbers are capped by lot size, all colonies must be in movable-frame hives, and a 25-foot setback from property lines is required unless a flyway barrier is used.
ROH § 7-2.5 (Chapter 7, Article 2) limits hives per lot based on size: up to 2 hives on lots under 10,000 sq ft, up to 4 hives on lots 10,000–20,000 sq ft, and up to 6 hives above 20,000 sq ft, with an absolute maximum of 8 hives. All colonies must be maintained in movable-frame hives. Hives must be set back 25 feet from property lines, sidewalks, and streets, or placed behind a solid 6-foot flyway barrier extending 2 feet beyond hive openings, or elevated 8+ feet above ground. Commercial beekeeping requires Agricultural or Country zoning. Enforcement is by the Humane Society of Hawaii.
First warning citation requires corrective action (reducing hives, relocating). Failure to comply results in a $25 fine for first offense and escalating penalties under ROH § 7-2.10.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Honolulu County.
See how other cities in Honolulu County handle beekeeping.
See how Honolulu's beekeeping rules stack up against other locations.
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