Tree removal permit rules in East Honolulu, HI — sometimes called heritage tree, protected tree, or street tree ordinances — list which trees require a permit before you can cut them down.
Designated exceptional trees in East Honolulu, including mature specimens in Aina Haina and Niu Valley estates, cannot be removed without a Parks and Recreation permit under ROH Chapter 40, Article 8.
East Honolulu contains older estates and public parks with mature native and heritage trees, some of which may be formally designated 'exceptional' by the county. ROH Chapter 40, Article 8 (Secs. 40-8.1 through 40-8.9) prohibits removal or destruction of any designated exceptional tree without a permit from the Department of Parks and Recreation. The Register is governed by Sec. 40-8.7, regulations by Sec. 40-8.8, and emergency removals by Sec. 40-8.9. Street trees not on the register are governed separately under ROH Sec. 10-1.4. State reference: HRS Chapter 58.
Unpermitted removal of an exceptional tree can result in substantial penalties, replanting orders, and civil liability; emergency removals require prompt reporting.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Honolulu County.
See how other cities in Honolulu County handle tree removal & heritage trees.
See how East Honolulu's tree removal & heritage trees rules stack up against other locations.
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