Honolulu's Exceptional Tree Ordinance (ROH Chapter 41) protects individually designated specimens for age, rarity, size, historic, or aesthetic value. Designation is by City Council resolution after Outdoor Circle and Arborist Advisory Committee review. Removal or major pruning requires a permit and may require Council action; tax credits up to $3,000 incentivize care.
The Revised Ordinances of Honolulu Chapter 41 (Exceptional Tree Ordinance, originally adopted 1975) takes a designation-based approach rather than a citywide DBH threshold. Any tree on public or private property may be nominated to the Arborist Advisory Committee for Exceptional Tree status based on age, rarity, size, historic or cultural value, aesthetic value, or ecological importance. After a public hearing, the City Council adopts a resolution adding the tree to the official register maintained by the Department of Parks and Recreation. Once designated, the tree cannot be removed, destroyed, or substantially pruned without a permit from the Department, and major work generally requires another Council action. Owners receive a real-property tax credit of up to $3,000 per Exceptional Tree per year for documented professional care.
Unauthorized removal, destruction, or unauthorized substantial pruning of an Exceptional Tree is a misdemeanor under ROH §41-6 punishable by fines up to $10,000 per tree, mandatory replacement, and loss of the property tax credit. Repeat violations may be charged as petty misdemeanors with possible jail time. Civil restoration costs (often $50,000+ for mature specimens) may also be imposed.
Honolulu, HI
Honolulu protects designated 'exceptional trees' under Revised Ordinances of Honolulu (ROH) Chapter 40, Article 8. Removing or destroying any exceptional tre...
Honolulu, HI
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Honolulu, HI
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Honolulu, HI
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Honolulu, HI
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Honolulu, HI
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Honolulu County.
See how other cities in Honolulu County handle heritage & protected trees.
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