Honolulu's Tree Protection: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles tree protection a little differently. In Honolulu, Hawaii, there are 2 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Tree Removal Permits

Trees in the public right-of-way or in city parks belong to the City and County of Honolulu, and removal requires a permit and arborist review under ROH chapters 14 and 41.

Key details: Local code: ROH Chapters 14 and 41. Owner of street trees: City and County of Honolulu. Permit issuer: Urban Forestry Division. Replacement requirement: Approved species list. Fine basis: Appraised tree value.

Cutting or topping a city street tree without a permit can bring fines based on the tree's appraised value, plus required replacement planting and a multi-year monitoring period.

Heritage & Protected Trees

Honolulu's Exceptional Tree Ordinance (ROH Chapter 41) protects individually designated specimens for age, rarity, size, historic, or aesthetic value. Designation is by City Council resolution after Outdoor Circle and Arborist Advisory Committee review. Removal or major pruning requires a permit and may require Council action; tax credits up to $3,000 incentivize care.

Key details: Designation: City Council resolution after AAC review. Protection: Removal and major pruning require permit. Tax credit: Up to $3,000 per Exceptional Tree for care. Notice: Council public hearing prior to designation. Register: Maintained by Honolulu Department of Parks.

Unauthorized removal, destruction, or unauthorized substantial pruning of an Exceptional Tree is a misdemeanor under ROH §41-6 punishable by fines up to $10,000 per tree, mandatory replacement, and loss of the property tax credit. Repeat violations may be charged as petty misdemeanors with possible jail time. Civil restoration costs (often $50,000+ for mature specimens) may also be imposed.

Compared to other cities, Honolulu takes a harder line on heritage & protected trees. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.

The Bottom Line

Honolulu's tree protection rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Honolulu is broadly strict or permissive.

This guide is based on Honolulu's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.