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🌍 Environmental Rules/Coastal Development

East Honolulu vs Pearl City

How do coastal development rules compare between East Honolulu, HI and Pearl City, HI?

East Honolulu and Pearl City have similar restriction levels.

East Honolulu, HI

Honolulu County

Heavy Restrictions

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 β†’

Pearl City, HI

Honolulu County

Heavy Restrictions

Shoreline-adjacent properties in Pearl City along Pearl Harbor require Special Management Area permits under ROH Chapter 25, implementing HRS Chapter 205A coastal management.

View full Pearl City rules β†’

Key Facts Comparison

FactEast HonoluluPearl City
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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.

Pearl City FAQ

Does SMA apply to properties near Pearl City Peninsula?

Properties within the Special Management Area boundary extending inland from Pearl Harbor shoreline require SMA permit review under Chapter 25 for qualifying development.

Are military properties subject to SMA?

Federal installations have separate jurisdictional rules, but private lands within SMA boundaries near federal areas remain subject to Chapter 25 requirements.

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