Environmental Rules in Honolulu, HI (2026)
5 verified environmental rules for Honolulu, Hawaii, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Stormwater Management
Honolulu's storm drain system discharges directly to the ocean, so ROH chapter 14 article 12 prohibits non-stormwater discharges and requires best management practices on construction and industrial sites.
Storm Drain Discharge And BMP Requirements
Some RestrictionsErosion Control
The Honolulu Grading Ordinance (ROH chapter 14 article 13) requires permits and erosion controls for cuts, fills, and stockpiles, especially on Oahu's steep upland and coastal slopes.
Grading Ordinance And Soil Erosion Controls
Some RestrictionsCoastal Development
Most development within Honolulu's Special Management Area (SMA) along Oahu's shoreline requires a special permit reviewed by DPP under HRS chapter 205A and ROH chapter 25.
Special Management Area (SMA) Permits Required
Heavy RestrictionsFlood Zones
Honolulu enforces FEMA flood zone construction standards under ROH chapter 21A and uses the city's Sea Level Rise Vulnerability Viewer to guide permits in low-lying coastal neighborhoods.
Sea Level Rise And FEMA Flood Zone Rules
Heavy RestrictionsClimate Emergency Mobilization
The Honolulu Climate Action Plan (CAP, 2020) and Climate Adaptation Strategy commit the city to net-zero emissions by 2045 and guide policies on buildings, transportation, and shoreline retreat.
Honolulu Climate Action Plan And Resilience Strategy
Some RestrictionsLooking for Honolulu County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Honolulu city rules.
Environmental Rules in Honolulu County →