Coastal Development: Kailua vs Kapolei
How do coastal development rules compare between Kailua, HI and Kapolei, HI?
Kailua and Kapolei have similar restriction levels.
Kailua, HI
Honolulu County
Kailua properties within the Special Management Area along Kailua and Lanikai beaches require SMA permits under ROH Chapter 25 before most development or significant improvements proceed.
View full Kailua rules →Kapolei, HI
Honolulu County
Kapolei projects near the leeward coast may fall within a Special Management Area regulated by ROH Chapter 25, implementing Hawaii's HRS Chapter 205A coastal zone management program.
View full Kapolei rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Kailua | Kapolei |
|---|---|---|
| - | - |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Kailua FAQ
Is my Kailua home in the SMA?
Properties within a set distance of the shoreline are likely inside the SMA; check the city's SMA map or contact DPP to confirm.
Do repairs need an SMA permit?
Ordinary maintenance is usually exempt, but structural additions or changes to footprint typically require at least a minor SMA permit.
Kapolei FAQ
Is Kapolei itself within the SMA?
Most of the Kapolei urban core is inland of the SMA, but coastal-adjacent parcels and certain corridors may fall within the SMA boundary.
Do I need an SMA permit to rebuild a coastal-area wall?
Possibly. Any development within the SMA meeting Chapter 25's thresholds requires an SMA minor or major permit before work begins.
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