Outdoor Burning: Honolulu vs Kailua
How do outdoor burning rules compare between Honolulu, HI and Kailua, HI?
Honolulu and Kailua have similar restriction levels.
Honolulu, HI
Honolulu County
Honolulu regulates open outdoor burning under ROH Chapter 20 (Fire Code). Most open burning requires prior notification or written AHJ approval, and is prohibited when deemed a fire hazard.
View full Honolulu rules →Kailua, HI
Honolulu County
Outdoor burning in Kailua is heavily restricted. Imu and cooking fires require a 15-minute advance call to HFD; recreational and ceremonial burning requires a 14-day advance letter, and State DOH open-burning permits may also apply.
View full Kailua rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Honolulu | Kailua |
|---|---|---|
| Governing code | ROH Ch. 20, NFPA 1 § 10.11 | - |
| Recreational fire notice | AHJ approval 14 days prior | - |
| Pre-ignition HFD notice | 15 minutes before lighting | - |
| Maximum fine | $1,000 per day | - |
| Enforced by | Honolulu Fire Department | - |
| - | - |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Honolulu FAQ
Can I have a backyard bonfire or fire pit in Honolulu?
Only with written property-owner permission and prior AHJ approval submitted at least 14 days in advance, plus HFD notification 15 minutes before lighting. Open burning can be prohibited if deemed hazardous.
Are imu (underground cooking fires) allowed without a permit?
An imu-style cooking fire not contained within an appliance does not require advance AHJ approval but does require HFD notification 15 minutes before lighting.
Where can I find the full Honolulu Fire Code?
ROH Chapter 20 is available on the HFD website and via the American Legal code library. The 2021 edition is based on NFPA 1 (2021).
Kailua FAQ
Can I burn yard waste from Kailua hurricane cleanup?
No. Yard waste burning generally requires a DOH Clean Air Branch permit and must also comply with ROH Chapter 20. Green waste should be taken to a transfer station.
Is a traditional imu allowed for a luau?
Yes, with property owner permission and a 15-minute pre-ignition call to HFD FCC. Recreational fires require the additional 14-day letter.
Compare other topics
See how Honolulu and Kailua compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool