The Honolulu Grading Ordinance (ROH chapter 14 article 13) requires permits and erosion controls for cuts, fills, and stockpiles, especially on Oahu's steep upland and coastal slopes.
ROH Chapter 14 Article 13 governs grading, grubbing, and stockpiling on private property. A grading permit is generally required when work moves more than 50 cubic yards of material, exceeds five feet in cut or fill, or disturbs vegetation on slopes steeper than 10 percent. Plans must include silt fences, hydromulching, dust controls, and stabilized exits. Inspections occur at rough grade and at completion. On steep ridges and near drainage ways, DPP may require geotechnical reports and surface drainage swales to protect downstream homes and reefs.
Unpermitted grading or skipped erosion controls can bring stop-work orders, fines, and orders to restore vegetation, especially when sediment reaches a stream or storm drain.
Honolulu, HI
Honolulu protects designated 'exceptional trees' under Revised Ordinances of Honolulu (ROH) Chapter 40, Article 8. Removing or destroying any exceptional tre...
Honolulu, HI
Honolulu has no city ordinance restricting lawn ornaments on residential property. HOA and condo covenants under HRS 421J and 514B commonly regulate ornament...
Honolulu, HI
Honolulu has no city ordinance regulating residential inflatable holiday displays. Size and blower noise are governed by HOA and condo covenants under HRS 42...
Honolulu, HI
Honolulu has no municipal ordinance regulating residential holiday lights. Display timing, brightness, and animation are governed by HOA and condo covenants ...
Honolulu, HI
Honolulu requires DPP building permits for outdoor kitchens with gas line plumbing, electrical wiring, plumbing fixtures, or structural roofs/pergolas. Stand...
Honolulu, HI
Honolulu has no smoker-specific ordinance. Hawaii Department of Health air pollution rules under HAR Chapter 11-60.1 apply to large commercial sources, not r...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Honolulu County.
See how other cities in Honolulu County handle erosion control.
See how Honolulu's erosion control rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.