Fireworks: Honolulu vs Kaneohe
How do fireworks rules compare between Honolulu, HI and Kaneohe, HI?
Honolulu and Kaneohe have similar restriction levels.
Honolulu, HI
Honolulu County
Honolulu bans virtually all consumer fireworks including sparklers, fountains, and aerial devices. Only licensed firecrackers with a permit are allowed on designated holidays. Violations carry heavy fines and potential imprisonment under ROH Chapter 20 and Hawaii state law.
View full Honolulu rules →Kaneohe, HI
Honolulu County
Consumer aerial fireworks are banned in Kaneohe. Only licensed display fireworks and permitted firecrackers tied to cultural or religious events are allowed under ROH Chapter 20, Article 6, with coordinated HFD and HPD enforcement around New Year's.
View full Kaneohe rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Honolulu | Kaneohe |
|---|---|---|
| Consumer fireworks | Prohibited (no permit available) | - |
| Firecrackers | Permit required; HFD issues permits | - |
| Base fine (ROH) | $250 – $2,000 per offense | - |
| Proximity fine (state) | $2,000 within 500 ft of dwelling | - |
| Governing code | ROH Ch. 20, Art. 6; HRS Ch. 132D | - |
| - | - |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Honolulu FAQ
Are sparklers legal in Honolulu?
No. Sparklers are classified as consumer fireworks and are prohibited in the City and County of Honolulu without exception.
How do I get a firecracker permit?
Apply through the Honolulu Fire Department at least 10 days before the intended use date. Permits are only issued for approved holidays and licensed sellers.
Can neighbors report illegal fireworks use?
Yes. Call HPD non-emergency line or 911. Officers may cite violators on the spot; penalties range from $250 fines to felony charges under Act 243.
Kaneohe FAQ
Can Kaneohe residents buy sparklers for New Year's?
Only permitted firecrackers (Sec. 20-6.13) are allowed. Consumer aerial and novelty fireworks are prohibited in Honolulu.
Does MCBH have different rules?
Yes. Marine Corps Base Hawaii is federal property with its own restrictions; civilians off-base are governed by ROH Article 6.
Compare other topics
See how Honolulu and Kaneohe 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