Heritage & Protected Trees: Ewa Gentry vs Honolulu
How do heritage & protected trees rules compare between Ewa Gentry, HI and Honolulu, HI?
Ewa Gentry and Honolulu have similar restriction levels.
Ewa Gentry, HI
Honolulu County
Any tree in Ewa Gentry listed under ROH Chapter 40 Article 8 as an Exceptional Tree cannot be removed without City Council approval, and any alteration requires a Department of Parks and Recreation permit.
View full Ewa Gentry rules →Honolulu, HI
Honolulu County
Honolulu's Exceptional Tree Ordinance (ROH Chapter 41) protects individually designated specimens for age, rarity, size, historic, or aesthetic value. Designation is by City Council resolution after Outdoor Circle and Arborist Advisory Committee review. Removal or major pruning requires a permit and may require Council action; tax credits up to $3,000 incentivize care.
View full Honolulu rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Ewa Gentry | Honolulu |
|---|---|---|
| - | - | |
| Designation | - | City Council resolution after AAC review |
| Protection | - | Removal and major pruning require permit |
| Tax credit | - | Up to $3,000 per Exceptional Tree for care |
| Notice | - | Council public hearing prior to designation |
| Register | - | Maintained by Honolulu Department of Parks |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Ewa Gentry FAQ
How do I know if a tree is exceptional?
Consult the Register of Exceptional Trees at the Department of Parks and Recreation or contact their Urban Forestry staff.
What about a storm-damaged exceptional tree?
Section 40-8.9 allows emergency action for imminent hazards, but the city must be notified as soon as practicable.
Honolulu FAQ
How do I know if a tree is Exceptional?
Check the City Department of Parks and Recreation Exceptional Tree register. Each designated tree has a Council resolution number and is typically marked with a metal plaque or sign on or near the trunk.
Can I prune my Exceptional Tree?
Routine maintenance pruning is allowed, but any major pruning, crown reduction, or root cutting requires a permit from the Department of Parks and a certified arborist plan.
Does the tax credit really work?
Yes – owners of designated Exceptional Trees can claim up to $3,000 per tree per year in real-property tax credits for documented professional arborist care, making the designation a net financial positive for many owners.
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