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πŸ“ Building Setbacks & Zoning/Lot Coverage Limits

Lot Coverage Limits: East Honolulu vs Kapolei

How do lot coverage limits rules compare between East Honolulu, HI and Kapolei, HI?

East Honolulu has fewer restrictions than Kapolei.

East Honolulu, HI

Honolulu County

Some Restrictions

East Honolulu residential lot coverage follows ROH 21-3.70-1, which caps impervious surface at 75 percent for dwellings permitted after May 1, 2019, impacting Hawaii Kai marina and ridge parcels.

View full East Honolulu rules β†’

Kapolei, HI

Honolulu County

Heavy Restrictions

ROH Sec. 21-3.70-1 limits impervious coverage on Kapolei residential lots, including a 75 percent impervious cap for dwellings permitted after May 1, 2019.

View full Kapolei rules β†’

Key Facts Comparison

FactEast HonoluluKapolei
Impervious cap75 percent-
Effective dateMay 1, 2019-
Code sectionROH 21-3.70-1-
Drainage overlayChapter 14 applies-
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Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.

East Honolulu FAQ

What is the Hawaii Kai impervious limit?

Dwellings permitted after May 1, 2019 cap impervious surface at 75 percent of the lot under ROH 21-3.70-1. Pools, driveways, and patios count toward the limit, pushing designs toward permeable surfaces.

Do older Portlock homes have to comply?

Pre-2019 homes that exceed the 75 percent cap are typically legally nonconforming. Substantial redevelopment or expansion can trigger full compliance with the current ROH 21-3.70-1 limit.

Kapolei FAQ

Do artificial turf areas count as impervious?

Classification depends on the underlying base and drainage; DPP determines counted impervious area during plan review.

Can I add a pool if my lot is already near the cap?

You may need to remove paving or use pervious materials to stay within the 75 percent impervious cap.

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