Tree Removal Permits: East Honolulu vs Kailua
How do tree removal permits rules compare between East Honolulu, HI and Kailua, HI?
Kailua has fewer restrictions than East Honolulu.
East Honolulu, HI
Honolulu County
East Honolulu homeowners must obtain a permit under ROH Section 10-1.4 before removing or pruning street trees fronting Hawaii Kai, Aina Haina, or Kuliouou properties.
View full East Honolulu rules →Kailua, HI
Honolulu County
Under ROH §10-1.4, Kailua residents must obtain a permit from the Department of Facility Maintenance before planting, pruning, or removing trees in the public right-of-way abutting their property.
View full Kailua rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | East Honolulu | Kailua |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | ROH Section 10-1.4 | - |
| Permit Issuer | DPR Director | - |
| Coverage | Public right-of-way trees | - |
| Private Trees | Only if exceptional | - |
| - | - |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
East Honolulu FAQ
Do I need a permit to trim a sidewalk tree in Hawaii Kai?
Yes. Any trimming, pruning, or removal of a street tree in the public right-of-way requires a permit from the Honolulu Department of Parks and Recreation under ROH 10-1.4.
What about a large tree in my Kuliouou backyard?
Private trees on East Honolulu lots generally do not require a city permit unless they are on the register of exceptional trees under ROH Chapter 40 Article 8.
Kailua FAQ
Do I need a permit to trim my own yard tree?
Not unless it is on the public right-of-way or listed as an Exceptional Tree.
How long does a street tree permit take?
Standard requests typically process in two to six weeks depending on site inspection workload.
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