Aiea Zoning & Land Use Guide

Last updated: Verified:

Official references and local checks

Use the official references below to identify the rules that apply to your address, then confirm parcel-specific requirements with the local authority before filing an application.

Official references

Population:
10,039
County:
Honolulu County
State building code:
2018 IBC with Hawaii amendments(statewide default)
State ADU law:
Yes — Act 39 (SB 3202, 2024), signed May 28, 2024, requires Hawaii counties to adopt or amend ordinances allowing at least two ADUs on all residentially zoned lots no later than December 31, 2026.
FEMA flood map:
Search flood zones
Municipal code:
View code online

Before you apply

  • Call the City & County of Honolulu Department of Planning and Permitting: (808) 768-8000
  • Search the municipal code for the chapter that covers your zoning district and proposed use.
  • Use the local zoning map to look up your parcel's zoning designation before applying for a permit.
  • Check FEMA flood zone for your parcel — flood-zone status changes setbacks, foundation requirements, and insurance.
  • Check your HOA CC&Rs and recorded deed restrictions — they are common in Aiea and frequently restrict ADUs, fences, and exterior changes beyond what zoning allows.

Key Zoning Facts

Local Zoning / Building Office
City & County of Honolulu Department of Planning and Permitting(808) 768-8000
Building Code Edition
2018 IBC with Hawaii amendments
ADU / Accessory Apartment
Verify by district

Regulatory Layers That Apply in Aiea

Your property is subject to ALL of these regulatory layers. Each one can impose additional requirements beyond the others.

Federal

State — Hawaii

  • Building Code: Hawaii State Building Code (2018 IBC)
View Hawaii zoning overview

County — Honolulu County

    City / Municipal

    The municipality's zoning ordinance, building-code enforcement, and local permits form the primary local layer of land-use regulation for your property.

    Overlay Districts

    No overlay districts identified.

    Private Restrictions

    • Private covenants, deed restrictions, condominium rules, or association rules can impose requirements beyond zoning.
    • Check HOA CC&Rs for additional restrictions.

    Statewide Context (Hawaii)

    Local data for Aiea is limited. The following state-level facts apply across Hawaii and are inherited by this page until city-specific details are verified.

    State Building Code
    2018 IBC with Hawaii amendments
    State ADU Preemption
    Yes — state law overrides local rules
    Coastal Zone
    Yes
    Wildfire Zones
    No

    ADU Rules in Aiea

    ADUs:Allowed(statewide context — not city-specific)
    Max Size
    800 sq ft
    Max Height
    25 ft
    Rear Setback
    5 ft
    Side Setback
    5 ft
    Parking
    1 off-street space required
    Owner Occupancy
    Owner must occupy either the primary or accessory dwelling
    Permit Timeline
    60-90 days

    Permit Costs & Timelines

    Check Current Permit Fees & Timelines

    Permit fees and review times can vary by project type, scope, valuation, and required approvals. Check the current schedule with the local permitting authority before filing.

    Check current Aiea permit information →

    Official Sources

    City-specific