HCC §25-4-22
Which structures can be taller than the height limit
Read the official text at hawaiicounty.gov ↗This section lists certain structures that can be built taller than the usual height limit, but each has a specific maximum extra height or other rule. For example, chimneys and flag poles can go up to 10 feet above the limit, and safety railings up to 42 inches. Some structures, like utility poles and wind machines, have different rules.
businessescontractorsdevelopershomeownerslandowners
The ordinance, as written (Hawaiʻi County) — Exemptions from height limitations
A copy, taken August 21, 2026. The version published by Hawaiʻi County is the one that governs, and it may have changed since. Check it before relying on anything here.
The following structures are exempt from zoning district height limits under the specified restrictions: (a) Chimneys, spires, belfries, water tanks, monuments, steeples, antennae, flag poles, vent pipes, fans, structures housing or screening elevator machinery and other similar features, not to exceed ten feet above the governing height limit. (b) Safety railings not to exceed forty-two inches above the governing height limit. (c) Utility poles and lines and telecommunication antennas not to exceed five hundred feet from existing grade. (d) One antenna for an amateur radio station operation per building site, not to exceed ninety feet above existing grade. (e) Wind machines, where permitted, provided that each machine shall be set back from all property lines one foot for each foot of height, measured from the highest vertical extension of the system. (f) Any energy savings device, including heat pumps and solar collectors, not to exceed eight feet above the governing height limit. (g) Nonresidential agricultural structures in the A and IA districts, not to exceed one hundred feet, as approved by the director upon finding that the additional height above forty-five feet is necessary. (1996, ord 96-160, sec 2; ratified April 6, 1999.)25-4-22
Published by the County of Hawaiʻi Office of the County Clerk.
LawTrove is not legal advice. The summary above is a computer-generated restatement — the authoritative text is the official version linked above.