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🌍 Environmental Rules/Coastal Development

Coastal Development: Mililani Mauka vs Waipahu

How do coastal development rules compare between Mililani Mauka, HI and Waipahu, HI?

Mililani Mauka has fewer restrictions than Waipahu.

Mililani Mauka, HI

Honolulu County

Few Restrictions

Mililani Mauka sits well inland of the shoreline and is generally outside Special Management Area boundaries, though ROH Chapter 25 still governs any SMA work elsewhere on Oahu.

View full Mililani Mauka rules β†’

Waipahu, HI

Honolulu County

Heavy Restrictions

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 β†’

Key Facts Comparison

FactMililani MaukaWaipahu
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Mililani Mauka FAQ

Does my Mililani Mauka home need an SMA permit?

Almost certainly not, since the community sits inland well outside SMA boundaries, but always confirm with the Department of Planning and Permitting.

I own a beach lot elsewhere. Does Chapter 25 apply?

Yes. SMA rules apply based on the location of the project, so any coastal-area development on Oahu is governed by ROH Chapter 25.

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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