Stormwater Management: East Honolulu vs Honolulu
How do stormwater management rules compare between East Honolulu, HI and Honolulu, HI?
Honolulu has fewer restrictions than East Honolulu.
East Honolulu, HI
Honolulu County
East Honolulu's coastal drainages to Maunalua Bay and Hawaii Kai waterways fall under ROH Chapter 43, Article 11 stormwater rules prohibiting non-stormwater discharges to the city's MS4 system.
View full East Honolulu rules →Honolulu, HI
Honolulu County
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.
View full Honolulu rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | East Honolulu | Honolulu |
|---|---|---|
| - | - | |
| Local code | - | ROH Chapter 14 Article 12 |
| Disturbance trigger | - | 1 acre or more |
| State permit | - | NPDES construction |
| City agency | - | DFM and ENV |
| Outfall destination | - | Direct to ocean |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
East Honolulu FAQ
Is it okay to drain my Hawaii Kai pool into the street?
No. Pool water typically contains chlorine and other chemicals and is classified as a non-stormwater discharge prohibited under Sec. 43-11.22 without special handling.
What should I do with wash water from my driveway?
Direct wash water to landscaped areas or capture it, as soapy or chemical-laden wash water entering a storm drain is a prohibited discharge under city stormwater rules.
Honolulu FAQ
Can I wash my car in the driveway on Oahu?
Occasional residential car washing is generally tolerated, but Honolulu encourages using a commercial wash. Soapy water flowing into the storm drain technically violates the discharge ordinance.
Who do I call to report illegal dumping into a storm drain?
Call the city's Storm Water Quality Hotline operated by the Department of Facility Maintenance. Photos and license plate numbers help inspectors investigate quickly.
Compare other topics
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