FEMA flood zone rules in Honolulu, HI — also called floodplain regulations or special flood hazard area (SFHA) rules — determine flood insurance requirements and elevation standards for new construction.
Honolulu enforces FEMA flood zone construction standards under ROH chapter 21A and uses the city's Sea Level Rise Vulnerability Viewer to guide permits in low-lying coastal neighborhoods.
Property in a FEMA Special Flood Hazard Area must meet elevation, foundation, and venting standards under the Honolulu Flood Hazard Areas ordinance (ROH Chapter 21A). New construction and substantial improvements (work valued at 50 percent or more of a structure's value) generally must elevate the lowest floor at or above the base flood elevation. The city encourages additional freeboard in areas mapped by the State of Hawaii Sea Level Rise Vulnerability and Adaptation Report, especially in Waikiki, Mapunapuna, and Ewa. Elevation certificates are required at permit and final inspection.
Building below required elevation, filling a floodway, or skipping an elevation certificate can void flood insurance, draw daily fines, and force costly retrofits.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Honolulu County.
See how other cities in Honolulu County handle flood zones.
See how Honolulu's flood zones rules stack up against other locations.
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