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πŸ“ Building Setbacks & Zoning/Lot Coverage Limits

Lot Coverage Limits: Kailua vs Urban Honolulu

How do lot coverage limits rules compare between Kailua, HI and Urban Honolulu, HI?

Urban Honolulu has fewer restrictions than Kailua.

Kailua, HI

Honolulu County

Heavy Restrictions

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 β†’

Urban Honolulu, HI

Honolulu County

Some Restrictions

Urban Honolulu caps impervious surface at 75 percent of lot area for residential dwellings permitted after May 1, 2019, under ROH 21-3.70-1 to manage runoff into the city's storm drains.

View full Urban Honolulu rules β†’

Key Facts Comparison

FactKailuaUrban Honolulu
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Impervious cap-75 percent
Effective date-May 1, 2019
Code section-ROH 21-3.70-1
Flood concern-Ala Wai drainage

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.

Urban Honolulu FAQ

How much of an Urban Honolulu lot can be paved?

For residential dwellings permitted after May 1, 2019, ROH 21-3.70-1 limits impervious coverage to 75 percent. Older homes follow the standards in effect when they were permitted.

Do pool decks count toward Honolulu lot coverage?

Generally yes. Pool decks, patios, driveways, and roofed accessory structures count toward the 75 percent impervious cap under ROH 21-3.70-1. Pervious pavers with approved drainage can earn partial credit.

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