Coastal Development: East Honolulu vs Kaneohe
How do coastal development rules compare between East Honolulu, HI and Kaneohe, HI?
East Honolulu and Kaneohe have similar restriction levels.
East Honolulu, HI
Honolulu County
Coastal development along East Honolulu's Maunalua Bay shoreline requires Special Management Area permits under ROH Chapter 25, implementing HRS Chapter 205A coastal zone management.
View full East Honolulu rules →Kaneohe, HI
Honolulu County
Shoreline and bay-fronting Kaneohe properties lie in the Special Management Area under ROH Chapter 25 and generally require SMA permits for development.
View full Kaneohe rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | East Honolulu | Kaneohe |
|---|---|---|
| - | - |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
East Honolulu FAQ
Do I need an SMA permit to build a seawall in Hawaii Kai?
Yes. Shoreline structures like seawalls trigger SMA review under Chapter 25 and may also require a shoreline setback variance under HRS 205A Part III.
Does SMA apply to interior remodels near the coast?
Interior renovations with no exterior expansion or land disturbance typically fall outside SMA review, but any shoreline-facing work within the SMA should be confirmed with city planning.
Kaneohe FAQ
Do I need a permit to add a dock?
Yes, new piers and docks typically require SMA review plus state and federal approvals given Kaneohe Bay conditions.
Is a seawall repair covered?
Structural seawall work is usually a major SMA action; routine in-kind maintenance may qualify for minor permit review.
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