Honolulu vs Kailua
How do weed ordinances rules compare between Honolulu, HI and Kailua, HI?
Honolulu and Kailua have similar restriction levels.
Honolulu, HI
Honolulu County
Honolulu's ROH Chapter 41, Article 10 requires property owners to cut and remove weeds and waste that constitute a public nuisance. Owners have 30 days to comply before the city abates at owner's expense.
View full Honolulu rules →Kailua, HI
Honolulu County
Vacant parcels in Kailua, including infill lots near Enchanted Lake and Maunawili, face 30-day weed abatement notices under ROH Chapter 16A.
View full Kailua rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Honolulu | Kailua |
|---|---|---|
| Compliance notice period | 30 days | - |
| Maximum daily fine | $5,000 per day | - |
| Cost recovery method | Lien on property | - |
| Governing chapter | ROH Ch. 41, Art. 10 | - |
| Enforcing agency | Building Dept. / DPP | - |
| Code | - | ROH Sec. 16A-2.1 et seq. |
| Notice period | - | 30 days to comply |
| Remedy | - | City abatement at owner cost |
| Scope | - | Vacant and improved lots |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Honolulu FAQ
What counts as a weed nuisance under Honolulu law?
Under ROH § 41-10.4, weeds that create fire hazard risk, shelter vermin or insects, obstruct roads or sidewalks, or block water flow in streams qualify as a public nuisance requiring abatement.
What happens if I don't remove weeds after a city notice?
After the 30-day compliance window, the city may enter your property, remove weeds and waste, and bill you for all costs. Unpaid bills become liens on the property.
How do I report a neighbor's overgrown property?
File a complaint with the Honolulu Department of Planning and Permitting at (808) 768-8161 or online at honolulu.gov/csd/publiccom.
Kailua FAQ
Can Kailua neighbors report overgrown vacant lots?
Yes. Complaints go to the Department of Planning and Permitting, which inspects and issues abatement notices under ROH Chapter 16A if warranted.
Does the rule apply to absentee owners of Kailua STR-zoned lots?
Yes. Ownership status does not change the abatement duty. Nonresident owners still receive mailed notices and remain liable for abatement costs.
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