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🌿 Landscaping Rules/Composting

East Honolulu vs Kaneohe

How do composting rules compare between East Honolulu, HI and Kaneohe, HI?

East Honolulu and Kaneohe have similar restriction levels.

East Honolulu, HI

Honolulu County

Some Restrictions

East Honolulu residents follow ROH Sec. 42-3.5 food waste recycling and the city's G.R.O.W. curbside program, with home composting allowed for typical Hawaii Kai and Aina Haina yards.

View full East Honolulu rules β†’

Kaneohe, HI

Honolulu County

Some Restrictions

Kaneohe residents and food businesses follow ROH Sec. 42-3.5; curbside food scrap collection is being phased in under the islandwide G.R.O.W. Program.

View full Kaneohe rules β†’

Key Facts Comparison

FactEast HonoluluKaneohe
CodeROH Sec. 42-3.5ROH Sec. 42-3.5
Curbside startApril 1, 2025-
ProgramG.R.O.W. food scrap programG.R.O.W. curbside
CommercialMandatory diversion rules-
Start date-April 1, 2025
Commercial duty-Mandatory diversion

Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.

East Honolulu FAQ

Can I compost food scraps in my East Honolulu yard?

Yes. Home composting is allowed and encouraged. Sealed bins help deter mongoose and rats common in hillside neighborhoods.

Do restaurants in Hawaii Kai need to separate food waste?

Yes. Commercial food establishments have mandatory food-waste diversion obligations under ROH Sec. 42-3.5 and related rules.

Kaneohe FAQ

Can Kaneohe homeowners backyard compost?

Yes. Backyard composting is encouraged but not mandated. Use enclosed bins to manage rodents, common with Kaneohe's humid conditions.

Do Windward Mall food vendors need a hauler?

Yes. Commercial food establishments must arrange certified diversion service under ROH Sec. 42-3.5 and retain manifests for inspection.

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