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🌿 Landscaping Rules/Tree Removal & Heritage Trees

East Honolulu vs Kaneohe

How do tree removal & heritage trees rules compare between East Honolulu, HI and Kaneohe, HI?

East Honolulu and Kaneohe have similar restriction levels.

East Honolulu, HI

Honolulu County

Heavy Restrictions

Designated exceptional trees in East Honolulu, including mature specimens in Aina Haina and Niu Valley estates, cannot be removed without a Parks and Recreation permit under ROH Chapter 40, Article 8.

View full East Honolulu rules β†’

Kaneohe, HI

Honolulu County

Heavy Restrictions

Kaneohe property owners cannot remove registered exceptional trees, including monkeypods near Kaneohe Bay and Hoomaluhia, without a Parks and Recreation permit.

View full Kaneohe rules β†’

Key Facts Comparison

FactEast HonoluluKaneohe
CodeROH Secs. 40-8.1 through 40-8.9ROH Secs. 40-8.1 to 40-8.9
Permit issuerParks and Recreation DepartmentParks and Recreation
Emergency clauseROH Sec. 40-8.9-
State referenceHRS Chapter 58-
Emergency removal-Sec. 40-8.9 process
Street trees-See ROH Sec. 10-1.4

Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.

East Honolulu FAQ

How do I know if my tree is designated exceptional?

Check the Exceptional Tree Register maintained under ROH Sec. 40-8.7 through Parks and Recreation. Most residential trees are not listed, but many neighborhood landmarks are.

Can I remove an exceptional tree after storm damage?

Emergency removals are allowed under ROH Sec. 40-8.9 when the tree poses imminent danger, but the city must be notified and documentation kept.

Kaneohe FAQ

How do I check if a Kaneohe tree is exceptional?

Review the Oahu Exceptional Tree Register through Parks and Recreation. Arborists can confirm species and DBH during property due diligence.

Can I remove a protected tree that damaged my Kaneohe driveway?

Not without a Parks and Recreation permit unless the tree poses imminent hazard under Sec. 40-8.9. Document conditions before any cutting.

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