Dark Sky Rules: Kailua vs Urban Honolulu
How do dark sky rules rules compare between Kailua, HI and Urban Honolulu, HI?
Urban Honolulu has fewer restrictions than Kailua.
Kailua, HI
Honolulu County
Commercial, industrial, and outdoor-recreation lighting in Kailua must use full cut-off shielded fixtures to protect night skies and adjacent residential areas, consistent with state night sky policy.
View full Kailua rules →Urban Honolulu, HI
Honolulu County
Honolulu's LUO 21-4.100 requires full cut-off shielded outdoor lighting for commercial, industrial, and outdoor-recreational development so that direct illumination does not spill into residential or resort districts, complementing the state night sky strategy.
View full Urban Honolulu rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Kailua | Urban Honolulu |
|---|---|---|
| - | - | |
| Code section | - | LUO 21-4.100 |
| Fixture type | - | Full cut-off shielded |
| Scope | - | Commercial, industrial, rec |
| Rooftop areas | - | Shielded beyond edge |
| State policy | - | HRS 201-8.5 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Kailua FAQ
Does this apply to my home security light?
Residential single-family fixtures are not the main focus, but trespass onto neighbors can still be actionable under nuisance rules.
Is rooftop restaurant lighting covered?
Yes. Non-enclosed rooftop spaces must be shielded to prevent light from escaping beyond the rooftop.
Urban Honolulu FAQ
Do Honolulu rooftop bars need special lighting?
Yes. Non-enclosed rooftop gathering areas must be shielded under LUO 21-4.100 so that direct illumination does not extend beyond the rooftop edge.
Does the dark-sky rule apply to my house?
LUO 21-4.100 targets commercial, industrial, and outdoor-recreational development. Residential lighting is addressed through nuisance rules and spillover prohibitions.
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