ADU Rules: East Honolulu vs Urban Honolulu
How do adu rules rules compare between East Honolulu, HI and Urban Honolulu, HI?
East Honolulu and Urban Honolulu have similar restriction levels.
East Honolulu, HI
Honolulu County
East Honolulu homeowners in Hawaii Kai and Aina Haina may build one accessory dwelling unit per zoning lot in eligible residential districts, subject to parking, occupancy, and rental-duration limits under the Honolulu Land Use Ordinance.
View full East Honolulu rules →Urban Honolulu, HI
Honolulu County
Most Urban Honolulu lots sit in apartment or mixed-use zones where ADUs under ROH Sec. 21-5.720 are not permitted; ADUs are generally limited to R-5 through R-20 single-family neighborhoods like Manoa, Kaimuki, and Nuuanu.
View full Urban Honolulu rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | East Honolulu | Urban Honolulu |
|---|---|---|
| - | - | |
| Code Section | - | ROH Sec. 21-5.720 |
| Urban Eligible Zones | - | R-5, R-7.5, R-10, R-20 |
| Not Eligible | - | A-1, A-2, BMX, B |
| Minimum Rental Term | - | 30 days |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
East Honolulu FAQ
Can I build an ADU on my Hawaii Kai lot?
Likely yes if your lot is in R-5, R-7.5, or R-10 zoning and meets minimum size requirements. Check with DPP before applying for your permit.
Can I rent my ADU on Airbnb?
No. ADUs in Honolulu may only be rented for periods of 30 days or longer under current ordinance rules.
Urban Honolulu FAQ
Can I build an ADU on my Kakaako or Ala Moana condo lot?
No. ADUs are not allowed in A-1, A-2, or BMX mixed-use zones common in Kakaako and Ala Moana. ADUs are limited to residential R-5 through R-20 districts.
Can I build an ADU on my Manoa single-family lot?
Yes, if the lot meets R-5 or R-7.5 minimum size, parking, and setback rules under ROH Sec. 21-5.720 and you obtain a building permit.
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