Coastal Development: Kaneohe vs Waipahu
How do coastal development rules compare between Kaneohe, HI and Waipahu, HI?
Kaneohe and Waipahu have similar restriction levels.
Kaneohe, HI
Honolulu County
Shoreline and bay-fronting Kaneohe properties lie in the Special Management Area under ROH Chapter 25 and generally require SMA permits for development.
View full Kaneohe rules →Waipahu, HI
Honolulu County
Waipahu properties along the West Loch of Pearl Harbor fall within the Special Management Area under ROH Chapter 25, which implements HRS Chapter 205A coastal management.
View full Waipahu rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Kaneohe | Waipahu |
|---|---|---|
| - | - |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Kaneohe FAQ
Do I need a permit to add a dock?
Yes, new piers and docks typically require SMA review plus state and federal approvals given Kaneohe Bay conditions.
Is a seawall repair covered?
Structural seawall work is usually a major SMA action; routine in-kind maintenance may qualify for minor permit review.
Waipahu FAQ
Does SMA apply to Waipahu properties near West Loch?
Properties inside the Special Management Area boundary inland of the West Loch shoreline require SMA permit review under Chapter 25 for qualifying development activities.
How do I find the SMA boundary for my parcel?
The Department of Planning and Permitting and city GIS maps show the Special Management Area boundary. You can also request a determination from planning staff.
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