Tree Protection in Hawaii (2026)
7 rules on the books across Hawaii, 4 cities and counties. Select a rule to read the full details.
Severity: Few Restrictions · Light Restrictions · Some Restrictions · Significant Restrictions · Heavy Restrictions
Heritage & Protected Trees
Extra protections for old, large, or historically significant trees, including the penalties for removing them without approval.
Maui County
Heavy RestrictionsMaui County protects historically, culturally or biologically significant trees by designating them 'exceptional trees'…
Read full rule →Kauai County
Significant RestrictionsKaua'i County Code Article 5 lets the County Council designate individual trees as "exceptional" for their historical…
Read full rule →Hawaii County
Some RestrictionsHawai'i County designates individual trees or groves as protected "exceptional trees" for their historic, cultural…
Read full rule →Protected Tree Species
Specific native species (oak, sycamore, walnut, juniper) protected by city ordinance, diameter thresholds, removal permits, and replacement ratios.
Parkway Planting
Permits and rules for planting in the parkway strip between sidewalk and curb, including approved species lists and Bureau of Street Services standards.
Honolulu County
Some RestrictionsThe Department of Parks and Recreation, not individual property owners, controls Oahu's street trees: ROH § 10-1.4…
Read full rule →Maui County
Some RestrictionsMaui County's Landscape Planting and Beautification chapter puts street-tree planting and upkeep under the director of…
Read full rule →Kauai County
Light RestrictionsKaua'i County Code § 10-5A.10(f)(3) directs new development in the Līhu'e Civic Center and Community Facilities…
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