ROH §25-2.3
Permits needed for building in the special management area
Read the official text at honolulu.gov ↗This section explains when you need a permit to develop property in the special management area. Small projects under a certain value may get a minor permit, while larger or risky projects need a major permit approved by the council. Some proposals may be exempt if they are not considered development.
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The ordinance, as written (Honolulu County) — Permits required for development
A copy, taken August 22, 2026. The version published by Honolulu is the one that governs, and it may have changed since. Check it before relying on anything here.
(a) All development within the special management area is subject to review under this chapter, pursuant to the objectives, policies, and guidelines set forth in this chapter.
(b) A proposal is exempt from obtaining a permit if the director finds that the proposal is not development governed by this chapter.
(c) A special management area minor permit may be granted if the director finds that the development proposal:
(1) Has a valuation or fair market value not in excess of $500,000; and
(2) Will not have significant adverse environmental or ecological effect, taking into account potential cumulative impacts and significant effects.
(d) A special management area major permit, approved by resolution of the council, is required for any development proposal that:
(1) Has a valuation or fair market value that exceeds $500,000; or
(2) May have significant adverse environmental or ecological effects, taking into account potential cumulative impacts and significant effects.
Published by the City and County of Honolulu through American Legal Publishing.
LawTrove is not legal advice. The summary above is a computer-generated restatement — the authoritative text is the official version linked above.