Designated exceptional trees in Pearl City, including historic specimens near older Pearlridge neighborhoods, cannot be removed without a permit under ROH Chapter 40, Article 8.
Pearl City contains several mature shade trees near older subdivisions and civic spaces that may qualify as 'exceptional' under the county register. ROH Chapter 40, Article 8 (Secs. 40-8.1 through 40-8.9) prohibits removal or destruction of any designated exceptional tree without a Department of Parks and Recreation permit. The Register is at Sec. 40-8.7, regulations at Sec. 40-8.8, and emergency removals at Sec. 40-8.9. Street trees outside the register use ROH Sec. 10-1.4 instead. Military-family homeowners who PCS in should confirm any large heritage tree status before planning a removal. State reference: HRS Chapter 58.
Unpermitted removal triggers substantial penalties, replanting orders, and civil liability. Emergency removals must be documented and reported promptly.
See how other cities in Honolulu County handle tree removal & heritage trees.
See how Pearl City's tree removal & heritage trees rules stack up against other locations.
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