Honolulu Zoning

R-5 Zone in Honolulu, HI

R-5 zoning district rules in Honolulu, HI. Permitted uses, setbacks, height limits, and lot coverage requirements.

Residential DistrictMulti-Family High Density

The R-5 zone in Honolulu, HI is a residential district (Multi-Family High Density). Permits multi-family housing at high density. Designed for urban cores and transit corridors where tall residential buildings are appropriate. This zone requires a 20 ft front setback, 5 ft side setback, and 15 ft rear setback. Maximum building height is 25 feet (2 stories). Maximum lot coverage is 50%.

Common Permitted Uses

  • High-rise apartments
  • Condominiums
  • Mixed residential

Permits multi-family housing at high density. Designed for urban cores and transit corridors where tall residential buildings are appropriate.

Setback Requirements

Setback TypeRequirement
Front Setback20 feet
Side Setback5 feet
Rear Setback15 feet

Honolulu LUO R-5 (Single-Family Residential, 5,000 sqft minimum lot) — standard single-family zone. Most common zone in urban Honolulu neighborhoods.

Height Limits

Max Height
25 feet
Max Stories
2

Honolulu LUO R-5 — 25 ft height limit for single-family. Hawaii's height limits are lower than many mainland cities due to scenic view protection concerns.

Lot Coverage

Max Coverage
50%

Honolulu LUO R-5 — 50% maximum lot coverage for standard single-family zone.

Parking Requirements

Single-family: 2 spaces per single-family dwelling. Covered parking (carport or garage) strongly preferred in Hawaii due to sun and weather. Multi-family: 1–1.5 spaces per unit depending on bedroom count and proximity to Skyline rail transit. Reduced requirements near rail stations.

Source: Revised Ordinances of Honolulu Chapter 21 (Land Use Ordinance); Hawaii Revised Statutes Section 46-4.5 (Act 232, 2023). Last verified April 6, 2026. View source

Last updated: April 6, 2026
R-5 Zone in Honolulu, HI — Permitted Uses & Rules | PropertyZoned