Beekeeping: Honolulu vs Kapolei
How do beekeeping rules compare between Honolulu, HI and Kapolei, HI?
Honolulu has fewer restrictions than Kapolei.
Honolulu, HI
Honolulu County
Honolulu allows noncommercial beekeeping on any zoning lot of at least 5,000 sq ft. Hive numbers are capped by lot size, all colonies must be in movable-frame hives, and a 25-foot setback from property lines is required unless a flyway barrier is used.
View full Honolulu rules →Kapolei, HI
Honolulu County
Kapolei's residential and commercial zoning does not permit beekeeping as an accessory use, and HOA covenants in the master-planned neighborhoods prohibit hives entirely.
View full Kapolei rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Honolulu | Kapolei |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum lot size | 5,000 sq ft | - |
| Max hives (small lots <10k sq ft) | 2 hives | - |
| Setback from property line | 25 feet (or barrier) | - |
| Flyway barrier height | 6 feet minimum | - |
| Hive type required | Movable-frame only | - |
| - | - |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Honolulu FAQ
Can I keep bees in a residential neighborhood?
Yes, on lots of 5,000+ sq ft in any zoning district for noncommercial purposes, subject to hive-count limits and the 25-foot setback or flyway barrier requirement under ROH § 7-2.5.
What counts as a flyway barrier to waive the 25-foot setback?
A solid fence, dense hedge, or similar barrier at least 6 feet high, parallel to the property line, extending at least 2 feet beyond each side of the hive openings, forcing bees to fly upward.
Kapolei FAQ
Can a Kapolei community garden host hives?
Only if on agriculturally zoned land with landowner permission and state registration. Verify zoning first.
What about native bees?
Native Hylaeus species do not form hives and are not 'beekeeping' under the LUO, though other rules may still apply.
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