Tree Trimming: Honolulu vs Pearl City
How do tree trimming rules compare between Honolulu, HI and Pearl City, HI?
Honolulu and Pearl City 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 →Pearl City, HI
Honolulu County
Pearl City homeowners along Kamehameha Highway and Waimano Home Road must get a permit from Urban Forestry for street tree work under ROH Sec. 10-1.4.
View full Pearl City rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Honolulu | Pearl City |
|---|---|---|
| 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 |
| Applies to | - | Public right-of-way trees |
| Exceptional trees | - | ROH Chapter 40, Article 8 |
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.
Pearl City FAQ
Can I trim a street tree blocking my driveway sight line?
Submit a request to Urban Forestry. Safety clearance is commonly approved but must be permitted under ROH Sec. 10-1.4 to avoid liability.
Are trees on military base property covered by ROH Sec. 10-1.4?
No. Federal installations like nearby Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam are not under county jurisdiction. Base housing has its own arboricultural rules.
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