Honolulu County's LUO Section 21-4.60 sets maximum structure heights and building envelope plane rules, with residential districts capped at 25 to 30 feet under ROH 21-3.70-1.
ROH/LUO Section 21-4.60 establishes Oahu's maximum structure heights and introduces the building envelope plane concept that shapes allowable massing on residential lots. In most R-3.5, R-5, R-7.5, R-10, and R-20 districts the maximum height is 25 feet, with a 30-foot envelope plane rising from the side yard lines to prevent tall boxy structures close to neighbors. Apartment and business districts carry higher limits. Height is measured from existing or finished grade, whichever is lower, and includes rooftop equipment with limited exceptions. District-specific residential standards are cross-referenced to 21-3.70-1. Special-district overlays such as Waikiki, Haleiwa, and Diamond Head impose additional height controls.
Exceeding the height limit or envelope plane triggers stop-work orders, required redesign or partial demolition, daily civil fines, and withholding of certificates of occupancy until structures are brought into compliance.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Honolulu County.
See how other cities in Honolulu County handle structure height limits.
See how Honolulu's structure height limits rules stack up against other locations.
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