Coastal Development: Honolulu vs Waipahu
How do coastal development rules compare between Honolulu, HI and Waipahu, HI?
Honolulu and Waipahu have similar restriction levels.
Honolulu, HI
Honolulu County
Most development within Honolulu's Special Management Area (SMA) along Oahu's shoreline requires a special permit reviewed by DPP under HRS chapter 205A and ROH chapter 25.
View full Honolulu rules →Waipahu, HI
Honolulu County
Waipahu properties along the West Loch of Pearl Harbor fall within the Special Management Area under ROH Chapter 25, which implements HRS Chapter 205A coastal management.
View full Waipahu rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Honolulu | Waipahu |
|---|---|---|
| Statute | HRS Chapter 205A | - |
| Local code | ROH Chapter 25 | - |
| Major threshold | Over $500,000 value | - |
| Reviewing agency | Honolulu DPP | - |
| Hearing body | Planning Commission | - |
| - | - |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Honolulu FAQ
Do small home repairs near the beach need an SMA permit?
Routine repairs and maintenance under the dollar threshold are usually exempt, but DPP can require a Minor Permit if the work touches dunes, shoreline structures, or vegetation.
How is the SMA boundary set?
DPP maintains official SMA maps for Oahu. The boundary follows mapped lines that approximate the inland edge of the coastal zone and is shown on the city's online GIS viewer.
Waipahu FAQ
Does SMA apply to Waipahu properties near West Loch?
Properties inside the Special Management Area boundary inland of the West Loch shoreline require SMA permit review under Chapter 25 for qualifying development activities.
How do I find the SMA boundary for my parcel?
The Department of Planning and Permitting and city GIS maps show the Special Management Area boundary. You can also request a determination from planning staff.
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