Honolulu vs Kaneohe
How do tree trimming rules compare between Honolulu, HI and Kaneohe, HI?
Honolulu and Kaneohe 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 →Kaneohe, HI
Honolulu County
Kaneohe homeowners along Kamehameha Highway and Kahekili Highway must obtain an Urban Forestry permit before trimming street trees under ROH Sec. 10-1.4.
View full Kaneohe rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Honolulu | Kaneohe |
|---|---|---|
| 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.
Kaneohe FAQ
Can I remove an albizia leaning into my Kaneohe yard?
Report the hazard to Urban Forestry. If the tree is in the right-of-way, the city handles removal. Self-cutting without permit is a violation.
Does Kaneohe Bay Drive have protected shoreline trees?
Several exceptional monkeypods are registered in nearby areas. Check the Exceptional Tree Register before any trunk work under Chapter 40.
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