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🌍 Environmental Rules/Flood Zones

Flood Zones: East Honolulu vs Kailua

How do flood zones rules compare between East Honolulu, HI and Kailua, HI?

East Honolulu and Kailua have similar restriction levels.

East Honolulu, HI

Honolulu County

Heavy Restrictions

Development in East Honolulu's FEMA-mapped flood zones falls under ROH Chapter 21A, which governs special flood hazard areas, flood fringe elevation standards, and flood variance procedures.

View full East Honolulu rules β†’

Kailua, HI

Honolulu County

Heavy Restrictions

Much of low-lying Kailua sits in FEMA-mapped flood zones, and ROH Chapter 21A sets elevation, foundation, and variance standards for development in these areas.

View full Kailua rules β†’

Key Facts Comparison

FactEast HonoluluKailua
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Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.

East Honolulu FAQ

How do I know if my Aina Haina home is in a flood zone?

Check the FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Maps adopted under Sec. 21A-1.5 through the city's GIS or the FEMA map service center to determine your property's flood zone designation.

What elevation must new construction meet?

Under Sec. 21A-1.8, new construction in the flood fringe must be elevated to or above base flood elevation, with specific requirements depending on the flood zone designation.

Kailua FAQ

Do I need flood insurance in Kailua?

Many Kailua properties are in flood zones where federally backed mortgages require flood insurance; check the FEMA map for your parcel.

Can I finish a ground floor below base flood elevation?

Only limited, flood-resistant uses are allowed below base flood elevation; habitable finishes generally are not permitted without a variance.

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