Honolulu vs Kailua
How do tree removal & heritage trees rules compare between Honolulu, HI and Kailua, HI?
Honolulu and Kailua have similar restriction levels.
Honolulu, HI
Honolulu County
Honolulu County protects designated exceptional trees island-wide under ROH Chapter 40, Article 8, prohibiting removal or destruction without a Parks and Recreation permit except in emergencies under Sec. 40-8.9.
View full Honolulu rules →Kailua, HI
Honolulu County
Kailua property owners cannot remove designated exceptional trees, including notable monkeypods near Kailua Beach, without a Parks and Recreation permit under ROH Chapter 40.
View full Kailua rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Honolulu | Kailua |
|---|---|---|
| Code sections | ROH 40-8.1 to 40-8.9 | - |
| Permit agency | Parks and Recreation | - |
| Emergency rule | Sec. 40-8.9 | - |
| Register section | Sec. 40-8.7 | - |
| State law | HRS Chapter 58 | - |
| Code | - | ROH Secs. 40-8.1 to 40-8.9 |
| Permit issuer | - | Parks and Recreation |
| Emergency removal | - | Sec. 40-8.9 process |
| Street trees | - | See ROH Sec. 10-1.4 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Honolulu FAQ
How do I find out if a tree is exceptional?
Check the Honolulu Exceptional Tree Register maintained by the Department of Parks and Recreation under ROH Sec. 40-8.7 before scheduling any removal or major pruning.
Can I cut an exceptional tree in an emergency?
ROH Sec. 40-8.9 allows emergency action for imminent threats, but the department expects prompt notification and documentation of the conditions justifying the removal.
Kailua FAQ
How do I know if my Kailua property has an exceptional tree?
Check the Oahu Exceptional Tree Register kept by Parks and Recreation. Title reports sometimes flag designations. Arborists can confirm using DBH and species.
Can I remove a tree that dropped a branch on my Kailua house?
Emergency hazard removals are allowed under Sec. 40-8.9, but you must notify Parks and Recreation and document the hazard to avoid violation.
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