Honolulu vs Kaneohe
How do tree removal & heritage trees rules compare between Honolulu, HI and Kaneohe, HI?
Honolulu and Kaneohe 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 →Kaneohe, HI
Honolulu County
Kaneohe property owners cannot remove registered exceptional trees, including monkeypods near Kaneohe Bay and Hoomaluhia, without a Parks and Recreation permit.
View full Kaneohe rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Honolulu | Kaneohe |
|---|---|---|
| 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.
Kaneohe FAQ
How do I check if a Kaneohe tree is exceptional?
Review the Oahu Exceptional Tree Register through Parks and Recreation. Arborists can confirm species and DBH during property due diligence.
Can I remove a protected tree that damaged my Kaneohe driveway?
Not without a Parks and Recreation permit unless the tree poses imminent hazard under Sec. 40-8.9. Document conditions before any cutting.
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