Honolulu vs Kapolei
How do composting rules compare between Honolulu, HI and Kapolei, HI?
Honolulu and Kapolei have similar restriction levels.
Honolulu, HI
Honolulu County
Honolulu County mandates food waste recycling under ROH Sec. 42-3.5, with Ordinance 23-30 adding curbside food scrap collection island-wide by April 1, 2025 through the G.R.O.W. Program.
View full Honolulu rules →Kapolei, HI
Honolulu County
Kapolei households and food businesses follow ROH Sec. 42-3.5 food waste recycling, including the G.R.O.W. curbside program under Ordinance 23-30.
View full Kapolei rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Honolulu | Kapolei |
|---|---|---|
| Code section | ROH Sec. 42-3.5 | - |
| Ordinance | Ord. 23-30 (Bill 47) | - |
| Program | G.R.O.W. curbside | - |
| Start date | April 1, 2025 | - |
| Commercial mandate | Yes for food establishments | - |
| Code | - | ROH Sec. 42-3.5 |
| Curbside program | - | G.R.O.W. food scraps |
| Effective | - | Phased from April 2025 |
| Setout rule | - | ROH Sec. 42-1.4 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Honolulu FAQ
Do I have to separate food scraps in Honolulu County?
Yes, as the G.R.O.W. Program rolls out island-wide. Commercial food establishments must already divert food waste under Ordinance 23-30 and ROH Sec. 42-3.5.
Can I still backyard compost?
Yes. Home composting on private property remains unregulated and is encouraged as an alternative to curbside diversion across Oahu.
Kapolei FAQ
Do Kapolei restaurants have to divert food waste?
Yes. Commercial food establishments in Kapolei fall under mandatory diversion under ROH Sec. 42-3.5 and supporting ordinances, with fines for noncompliance.
Can I compost at home in Kapolei?
Yes. Backyard compost is allowed if it does not create odors, vermin, or other nuisances under ROH Chapter 16A. Many Kapolei HOAs restrict bin placement.
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