Light Trespass: East Honolulu vs Kailua
How do light trespass rules compare between East Honolulu, HI and Kailua, HI?
East Honolulu and Kailua have similar restriction levels.
East Honolulu, HI
Honolulu County
East Honolulu light trespass is controlled through the shielding and cutoff requirements in ROH 21-4.100, preventing direct illumination onto residential neighborhoods in Hawaii Kai, Aina Haina, and Kuliouou.
View full East Honolulu rules →Kailua, HI
Honolulu County
Kailua has no standalone light trespass ordinance with foot-candle limits, but shielding requirements in LUO 21-4.100 function to prevent direct illumination onto neighboring residential properties.
View full Kailua rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | East Honolulu | Kailua |
|---|---|---|
| Code section | ROH 21-4.100 | - |
| Method | Full cut-off shielding | - |
| Foot-candle limit | None set | - |
| Nuisance backstop | ROH Ch. 41 | - |
| Protected zones | Residential, country | - |
| - | - |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
East Honolulu FAQ
Can I measure light trespass at my Hawaii Kai property line?
Honolulu does not set a foot-candle limit. Enforcement requires proving noncompliant fixtures under LUO 21-4.100, not a numerical illuminance threshold.
What if my neighbor's floodlight shines into my Aina Haina window?
You can file a DPP complaint if the fixture is noncompliant commercial or recreational lighting, or pursue a public nuisance claim under ROH Chapter 41.
Are single-family home floodlights regulated?
LUO 21-4.100 targets commercial and recreational development. Single-family residential fixtures fall under nuisance law rather than the zoning shielding rule.
Kailua FAQ
Can I demand a neighbor dim a bright porch light in Coconut Grove?
You can pursue a private nuisance complaint if light substantially interferes with your reasonable use of your home.
Does this cover LED upgrades?
Yes. Any new or replacement fixture in covered developments must still meet the shielding requirements.
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