Signage Rules: Honolulu vs Pearl City
How do signage rules rules compare between Honolulu, HI and Pearl City, HI?
Honolulu and Pearl City have similar restriction levels.
Honolulu, HI
Honolulu County
Honolulu's Land Use Ordinance prohibits any exterior signage indicating a home is used for a business. Under ROH § 21-5.350, home occupations must be invisible from the street — no signs, displays, or advertising may be mounted on or near the dwelling.
View full Honolulu rules →Pearl City, HI
Honolulu County
Pearl City residential districts severely limit home-business signage under ROH Chapter 21, Article 7. Only minimal nameplate signs identifying the resident are typically permitted.
View full Pearl City rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Honolulu | Pearl City |
|---|---|---|
| Exterior signs | Prohibited for home occupations | - |
| Residential district sign max | 4 sq ft (non-dwelling use only) | - |
| Illuminated signs | Not permitted in residential zones | - |
| Governing code | ROH § 21-5.350; Ch. 21 Art. 7 | - |
| Enforcing agency | Honolulu Dept. of Planning & Permitting | - |
| - | - |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Honolulu FAQ
Can I put a small nameplate on my mailbox for my home business?
No. ROH § 21-5.350 prohibits any exterior signage that indicates the residence is used for non-residential purposes, including nameplates advertising a business.
Can I advertise my home business with a sign in my window?
Interior window signs visible from the street may still violate the intent of ROH § 21-5.350. Consult the Honolulu DPP for guidance on specific situations.
Are there any exceptions for certain licensed home businesses?
The ordinance makes no general exceptions. Any home occupation, regardless of type or license, must comply with the no-exterior-sign requirement under § 21-5.350.
Pearl City FAQ
Can I put a small business sign in my Pearl City yard?
Yard signs advertising a business are generally prohibited in residential districts. Only a modest nameplate identifying the resident or professional occupant is allowed.
Are temporary event banners allowed?
Temporary residential signs like real estate or personal event banners have separate rules under Article 7. Commercial advertising banners for home businesses are not permitted.
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