Honolulu County, HI Landscaping Rules: Weed Ordinances (2026)
Key Facts
- Height limit
- 18 inches
- Trigger distance
- Within 30 feet of building
- Applies in
- Residential, apartment zoning districts
- Governing code
- ROH § 16A-2.1(4)
Summary
Uncultivated, flammable weeds taller than 18 inches within 30 feet of a building in residential and apartment zoning districts are a declared public nuisance under Honolulu's Housing Code, subject to abatement citywide across Oahu.
Uncultivated, flammable weeds in excess of 18 inches in height located within 30 feet of any building: (A) In the apartment, apartment mixed use, or residential zoning districts; or (B) In a housing project developed in another zoning district pursuant to exemptions authorized by State law;
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2026 S-10: Supplement 10, 12-2025 Ordinance No. 25-40 through Ordinance No. 25-56).
Full Breakdown
Honolulu's Housing Code (§ 16A-2.1) defines uncultivated, flammable weeds over 18 inches tall within 30 feet of a building as a public nuisance when the property sits in an apartment, apartment-mixed-use, or residential zoning district, or in an exempt housing project. The rule applies island-wide, from Kailua to Waianae, not just Honolulu's urban core. Separately, § 40-7.4 lets the director of planning and permitting notify an owner to cut overgrown weeds, garbage, trash, or waste; if the owner does not comply within 30 days, the city cuts and removes them and liens the property for the cost plus 7 percent annual interest.
Violations & Fines
Maintaining the nuisance is a Housing Code violation: misdemeanor, notice of violation, then a fine up to $1,000 or up to one year imprisonment under § 16A-10.5; the city can also bill and lien the property.
Frequently Asked Questions
What counts as illegal weed height in Honolulu?
Does this rule apply outside Honolulu's urban core?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Honolulu County
How Honolulu County compares: Cities with the Strictest Weed and Property Maintenance Rules·Compare Honolulu County to another location·View the Hawaii landscaping rules overview
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