Honolulu vs Kailua
How do tree trimming rules compare between Honolulu, HI and Kailua, HI?
Honolulu and Kailua have similar restriction levels.
Honolulu, HI
Honolulu County
Honolulu requires permits for trimming, pruning, or removing street trees in the public right-of-way (ROH § 10-1.4) and for any work on city-designated exceptional trees under ROH Ch. 40, Art. 8. Fines up to $1,000 apply for violations.
View full Honolulu rules →Kailua, HI
Honolulu County
Kailua homeowners along Kailua Road and Kalaheo Avenue must obtain an Urban Forestry permit before trimming street trees under ROH Sec. 10-1.4.
View full Kailua rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Honolulu | Kailua |
|---|---|---|
| Street tree permit | Required – apply via DPR | - |
| Exceptional tree permit | DPR + qualified arborist required | - |
| Max fine | Up to $1,000 | - |
| Removal authority | City Council approval needed | - |
| Code | - | ROH Sec. 10-1.4 |
| Permit issuer | - | Parks and Recreation Urban Forestry |
| Scope | - | Public right-of-way trees |
| Exceptional trees | - | ROH Chapter 40, Article 8 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Honolulu FAQ
Can I trim a street tree that overhangs my property?
Not without a permit. ROH § 10-1.4 requires a DPR permit for any trimming of street trees in the public right-of-way, even by adjacent property owners.
How do I know if a tree is an 'exceptional tree'?
The DPR maintains a register of exceptional trees under ROH § 40-8.7. Contact DPR's Division of Urban Forestry or check the register before doing any tree work.
Kailua FAQ
Can I trim a branch blocking my Kailua driveway?
Submit an Urban Forestry permit request. Sight-line and safety trimming is regularly approved, but doing it yourself without a permit is a violation of ROH Sec. 10-1.4.
Do Lanikai's private lane trees count as street trees?
Trees in the public right-of-way do, even on narrow lanes. Trees entirely on private lots are not regulated under Sec. 10-1.4 unless designated exceptional.
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