Honolulu requires permits for trimming, pruning, or removing street trees in the public right-of-way (ROH § 10-1.4) and for any work on city-designated exceptional trees under ROH Ch. 40, Art. 8. Fines up to $1,000 apply for violations.
Under ROH § 10-1.4, the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) administers rules for planting, trimming, and maintaining all street trees, hedges, and shrubs in the public right-of-way. Private citizens must obtain a permit before trimming or removing any street tree. Separately, ROH Ch. 40, Art. 8 protects designated exceptional trees islandwide: any pruning of crown or roots requires DPR approval and a qualified arborist. Removal of an exceptional tree requires City Council approval except in emergencies. Violations carry fines up to $1,000.
Unpermitted trimming or removal of street or exceptional trees: fines up to $1,000 per violation. Exceptional tree removal without City Council approval may require restoration.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Honolulu County.
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