Tree Trimming: Honolulu vs Mililani Town
How do tree trimming rules compare between Honolulu, HI and Mililani Town, HI?
Honolulu and Mililani Town 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 →Mililani Town, HI
Honolulu County
Mililani Town homeowners along Meheula Parkway and Kuahelani Avenue need an Urban Forestry permit before trimming street trees under ROH Sec. 10-1.4.
View full Mililani Town rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Honolulu | Mililani Town |
|---|---|---|
| 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 |
| Common areas | - | MTA/HOA jurisdiction |
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.
Mililani Town FAQ
Is my Mililani cul-de-sac tree a street tree or HOA tree?
Check with the MTA and DPP. Trees in public right-of-way require ROH Sec. 10-1.4 permits; HOA common area trees follow association rules.
Can I trim a plumeria hanging over my Mililani fence?
Overhanging private-side branches may be trimmed at the property line if the tree trunk is on private land. Street trees still need a permit.
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