Tree Removal Permits: East Honolulu vs Urban Honolulu
How do tree removal permits rules compare between East Honolulu, HI and Urban Honolulu, HI?
Urban Honolulu has fewer restrictions than East Honolulu.
East Honolulu, HI
Honolulu County
East Honolulu homeowners must obtain a permit under ROH Section 10-1.4 before removing or pruning street trees fronting Hawaii Kai, Aina Haina, or Kuliouou properties.
View full East Honolulu rules →Urban Honolulu, HI
Honolulu County
Urban Honolulu street trees along Kalakaua, King, and Beretania require a permit before removal, trimming, or replacement under ROH 10-1.4.
View full Urban Honolulu rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | East Honolulu | Urban Honolulu |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | ROH Section 10-1.4 | ROH §10-1.4 |
| Permit Issuer | DPR Director | - |
| Coverage | Public right-of-way trees | - |
| Private Trees | Only if exceptional | Only if exceptional |
| Scope | - | Public right-of-way |
| Permits | - | Pre-approval required |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
East Honolulu FAQ
Do I need a permit to trim a sidewalk tree in Hawaii Kai?
Yes. Any trimming, pruning, or removal of a street tree in the public right-of-way requires a permit from the Honolulu Department of Parks and Recreation under ROH 10-1.4.
What about a large tree in my Kuliouou backyard?
Private trees on East Honolulu lots generally do not require a city permit unless they are on the register of exceptional trees under ROH Chapter 40 Article 8.
Urban Honolulu FAQ
Can a Waikiki hotel trim a banyan out front?
Not without authorization. Street-tree work in the public right-of-way requires a permit issued under rules adopted pursuant to ROH §10-1.4.
Who administers the permit?
The Division of Urban Forestry under the Department of Parks and Recreation handles street tree permits for Urban Honolulu.
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