Kaneohe vs Pearl City
How do dark sky rules rules compare between Kaneohe, HI and Pearl City, HI?
Pearl City has fewer restrictions than Kaneohe.
Kaneohe, HI
Honolulu County
Commercial and industrial development in Kaneohe must use full cut-off shielded outdoor lighting to eliminate sky glow and protect residential and conservation neighbors.
View full Kaneohe rules →Pearl City, HI
Honolulu County
Pearl City commercial, industrial, and recreational development must use full cut-off shielded fixtures under ROH 21-4.100, protecting residential neighborhoods and Pearl Harbor security lighting corridors.
View full Pearl City rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Kaneohe | Pearl City |
|---|---|---|
| - | - | |
| Code section | - | ROH 21-4.100 |
| Fixture type | - | Full cut-off shielded |
| Applies to | - | Commercial/industrial |
| State companion | - | HRS 201-8.5 |
| Rooftop rule | - | Shield beyond rooftop |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Kaneohe FAQ
Does the parking lot at Windward Mall need shielded lights?
Yes. Commercial parking lot lighting must meet the shielding standards to prevent spillover.
What about conservation lands behind Kaneohe?
The ordinance reduces sky glow toward the Koolaus, supporting conservation areas and observatories statewide.
Pearl City FAQ
Does the ordinance apply to Pearl City big-box retail?
Yes. Large commercial sites along Kamehameha Highway must install full cut-off shielded fixtures to eliminate light spill onto adjacent residential Pearl City.
Are military installation lights regulated?
JBPHH federal installations follow DoD lighting standards, not ROH 21-4.100. Surrounding private Pearl City development remains subject to the county ordinance.
What is a full cut-off fixture?
A fixture designed so no light is emitted above horizontal, directing all output downward. This is the standard required by ROH 21-4.100.
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