Lot Coverage Limits: Kaneohe vs Pearl City
How do lot coverage limits rules compare between Kaneohe, HI and Pearl City, HI?
Pearl City has fewer restrictions than Kaneohe.
Kaneohe, HI
Honolulu County
Kaneohe residential lots must meet ROH Sec. 21-3.70-1 impervious-surface caps. Dwellings permitted after May 1, 2019 are limited to 75 percent impervious coverage to manage runoff into Kaneohe Bay.
View full Kaneohe 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 | Kaneohe | 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.
Kaneohe FAQ
Can I build a larger driveway by using pavers?
Yes, many pervious paver systems count as partially or fully pervious, allowing more hardscape area within the cap.
Does a swimming pool count as impervious?
Yes, pools and their surrounding decks typically count as impervious for coverage calculations.
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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