Honolulu vs Waipahu
How do outdoor burning rules compare between Honolulu, HI and Waipahu, HI?
Honolulu and Waipahu have similar restriction levels.
Honolulu, HI
Honolulu County
Honolulu regulates open outdoor burning under ROH Chapter 20 (Fire Code). Most open burning requires prior notification or written AHJ approval, and is prohibited when deemed a fire hazard.
View full Honolulu rules →Waipahu, HI
Honolulu County
Outdoor burning in Waipahu is tightly limited under the Honolulu Fire Code. Imu cooking, recreational fires, and ceremonial burns each require specific advance notices or permissions.
View full Waipahu rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Honolulu | Waipahu |
|---|---|---|
| Governing code | ROH Ch. 20, NFPA 1 § 10.11 | - |
| Recreational fire notice | AHJ approval 14 days prior | - |
| Pre-ignition HFD notice | 15 minutes before lighting | - |
| Maximum fine | $1,000 per day | - |
| Enforced by | Honolulu Fire Department | - |
| Imu Notice | - | 15 minutes to HFD |
| Ceremonial Notice | - | 14 days to AHJ |
| Owner Permission | - | Required in writing |
| State Permit | - | DOH for agriculture |
| Code Chapter | - | ROH Ch. 20 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Honolulu FAQ
Can I have a backyard bonfire or fire pit in Honolulu?
Only with written property-owner permission and prior AHJ approval submitted at least 14 days in advance, plus HFD notification 15 minutes before lighting. Open burning can be prohibited if deemed hazardous.
Are imu (underground cooking fires) allowed without a permit?
An imu-style cooking fire not contained within an appliance does not require advance AHJ approval but does require HFD notification 15 minutes before lighting.
Where can I find the full Honolulu Fire Code?
ROH Chapter 20 is available on the HFD website and via the American Legal code library. The 2021 edition is based on NFPA 1 (2021).
Waipahu FAQ
Can we imu for a family gathering in Waipahu?
Yes, with compliance. Imu cooking fires require a 15-minute advance call to the HFD Fire Communication Center, and ceremonial elements may also require a 14-day AHJ letter.
Can farmers burn cane-style debris on former plantation land?
Only with a Hawaii Department of Health Clean Air Branch permit plus ROH Chapter 20 compliance. Residential-area burns are generally not approved.
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