Hawaii Exceptional Tree Removal Restrictions

HRS Chapter 58 establishes statewide protection for trees designated as exceptional by county arborist advisory committees based on age, rarity, location, size, aesthetic quality, endemic status, or historic value. Once designated, no person may destroy or damage the tree without prior written approval from the county arborist committee. The law applies uniformly across Honolulu, Hawaii, Maui, and Kauai counties. Property owners may receive a state tax deduction up to $3,000 every three years for maintenance costs. Counties enforce designations but cannot waive the underlying state protection.

Violations may result in misdemeanor charges, civil penalties, restitution for tree value, and required replacement plantings under county enforcement provisions.