In Honolulu, fences six feet or under are generally exempt from building permits unless on a street corner or in a flood zone. Fences taller than six feet require a permit and fire-department access approval.
Under ROH Chapter 16 (Building Code), § 16-6.2, fences and planter boxes not exceeding 6 feet in height are exempt structures not requiring a building permit, provided they are not on a street corner or within a flood zone. Fences over 6 feet require a building permit and, in areas where height is not governed by the Land Use Ordinance, are subject to Fire Department access approval. Retaining walls over 30 inches in height also require a permit per ROH § 21-4.40. Barbed wire and razor wire are prohibited on residential fences. Fences must comply with ROH Chapter 16, the Land Use Ordinance (Chapter 21), and ROH § 15-24.6.
Unpermitted fences over 6 feet may result in stop-work orders, mandatory removal, and fines; each day of continued violation is a separate offense under ROH § 16.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Honolulu County.
See how other cities in Honolulu County handle permit requirements.
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