Native Plants: Honolulu vs Pearl City
How do native plants rules compare between Honolulu, HI and Pearl City, HI?
Honolulu and Pearl City have similar restriction levels.
Honolulu, HI
Honolulu County
Honolulu County permits native Hawaiian species as landscape substitutions under LUO Sec. 21-4.70 but does not mandate native-only planting; voluntary guidance comes from the Board of Water Supply Xeriscape Program.
View full Honolulu rules →Pearl City, HI
Honolulu County
Pearl City permits native Hawaiian species as landscape substitutions under LUO Sec. 21-4.70, a water-wise option for condo common areas and single-family yards near Pearlridge.
View full Pearl City rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Honolulu | Pearl City |
|---|---|---|
| Code section | LUO Sec. 21-4.70 | - |
| Native mandate | None | - |
| Substitution allowed | Yes for street trees | - |
| Voluntary program | BWS Xeriscape | - |
| Applies to | All Oahu zoning districts | - |
| Code | - | LUO Sec. 21-4.70 |
| Mandate | - | Voluntary, not required |
| Guidance | - | BWS Xeriscape Program |
| Climate fit | - | Central Oahu warm zone |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Honolulu FAQ
Does Honolulu require native plants in new landscaping?
No. LUO Sec. 21-4.70 allows native species as substitutions but does not require them. Voluntary guidance from BWS and UH CTAHR supports native plant selection.
Can I replace a required street tree with a native species?
Yes. The Land Use Ordinance permits approved native Hawaiian species as landscape substitutions with acceptance from the Department of Planning and Permitting.
Pearl City FAQ
Can a Pearl City condo replace lawn with native groundcover?
Yes. LUO Sec. 21-4.70 permits native species substitutions, which can reduce HOA water costs and align with BWS Xeriscape guidance.
Do I need approval to plant natives in my yard?
Not for typical single-family yards. Approvals apply primarily to new construction or permitted landscape plans reviewed by the Department of Planning and Permitting.
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