Lot Coverage Limits: Kailua vs Pearl City
How do lot coverage limits rules compare between Kailua, HI and Pearl City, HI?
Pearl City has fewer restrictions than Kailua.
Kailua, HI
Honolulu County
Kailua residential lots follow ROH Sec. 21-3.70-1, which limits impervious surface coverage. Homes permitted after May 1, 2019 are capped at 75 percent impervious coverage to reduce runoff and protect windward watersheds.
View full Kailua rules →Pearl City, HI
Honolulu County
Pearl City lot coverage follows ROH 21-3.70-1, capping impervious surface at 75 percent for dwellings permitted after May 1, 2019, including homes in Waimalu, Manana, and Pearl City Highlands.
View full Pearl City rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Kailua | Pearl City |
|---|---|---|
| - | - | |
| Impervious cap | - | 75 percent |
| Effective date | - | May 1, 2019 |
| Code section | - | ROH 21-3.70-1 |
| Drainage overlay | - | Chapter 14 applies |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Kailua FAQ
Does a gravel driveway count against coverage?
Gravel is generally treated as pervious, helping stay under the 75 percent cap, though compacted surfaces may count differently.
What if my existing home already exceeds 75 percent?
Older lots may be grandfathered, but any major expansion or rebuild will typically require compliance with current caps.
Pearl City FAQ
What is the Pearl City impervious limit?
Dwellings permitted after May 1, 2019 cap impervious surface at 75 percent of the lot under ROH 21-3.70-1. Driveways, pool decks, and patios count, pushing designs toward permeable surfaces.
Do older Manana homes have to comply?
Pre-2019 homes exceeding the 75 percent cap are typically legally nonconforming. Substantial redevelopment or expansion can trigger full compliance with the current ROH 21-3.70-1 impervious cap.
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