Beekeeping: Honolulu vs Kailua
How do beekeeping rules compare between Honolulu, HI and Kailua, HI?
Honolulu and Kailua have similar restriction levels.
Honolulu, HI
Honolulu County
Honolulu allows noncommercial beekeeping on any zoning lot of at least 5,000 sq ft. Hive numbers are capped by lot size, all colonies must be in movable-frame hives, and a 25-foot setback from property lines is required unless a flyway barrier is used.
View full Honolulu rules →Kailua, HI
Honolulu County
Kailua has no dedicated beekeeping ordinance. Beekeeping is treated as an agricultural accessory use permitted only in zoning districts that allow agriculture under the Land Use Ordinance.
View full Kailua rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Honolulu | Kailua |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum lot size | 5,000 sq ft | - |
| Max hives (small lots <10k sq ft) | 2 hives | - |
| Setback from property line | 25 feet (or barrier) | - |
| Flyway barrier height | 6 feet minimum | - |
| Hive type required | Movable-frame only | - |
| - | - |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Honolulu FAQ
Can I keep bees in a residential neighborhood?
Yes, on lots of 5,000+ sq ft in any zoning district for noncommercial purposes, subject to hive-count limits and the 25-foot setback or flyway barrier requirement under ROH § 7-2.5.
What counts as a flyway barrier to waive the 25-foot setback?
A solid fence, dense hedge, or similar barrier at least 6 feet high, parallel to the property line, extending at least 2 feet beyond each side of the hive openings, forcing bees to fly upward.
Kailua FAQ
Can I keep two hives in my Kailua backyard?
Only if your parcel is in an agricultural zoning district. Most residential Kailua lots do not qualify.
Do I need to register my hives?
Yes, register with the Hawaii Department of Agriculture under HRS Chapter 152.
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