YardCareDirectory

Hawaii Tree Removal Permit Requirements

LOCAL RULES VARY

No statewide permit, but Honolulu and Maui have significant tree ordinances. Hawaii's island geography means strong environmental review requirements.

Issuing authority: County Department of Planning
Permit Fee
$50–$150
Processing Time
10–20 business days
Protected Species
4
City Rules Listed
1
Protected Species in HI
KoaOhia LehuaHala (Pandanus)Coconut Palm
These species commonly trigger permit requirements or stricter review in Hawaii jurisdictions. Check with your specific city — protections vary by municipality.
Common Exemptions
  • +Dead trees
  • +Trees under 4 inches DBH
  • +Certified hazardous trees

Exemptions still often require documentation. Bring photos, contractor assessments, or an ISA-certified arborist report to support a hazard or disease claim.

Heritage Trees

Honolulu maintains a significant tree list including many koa and banyan specimens.

Penalties for Unpermitted Removal

Fines up to $1,000 per tree. Replacement required with approved native species.

Rules by City in Hawaii

Honolulu

Significant trees (heritage-listed or over designated size) require permits. Banyan trees are informally protected throughout the city.

Fee: $75 application feeDLNR may have overlapping jurisdiction near conservation districts.
Tips for Hawaii Homeowners
  1. Koa and ohia are culturally and ecologically significant — check with county before any removal.
  2. Hawaii's ag land has different rules than residential parcels — check your land use designation.
Find tree services in Hawaii that handle permits
Licensed professionals know local rules and will pull permits for you.
Tree Services in Hawaii