Makakilo Zoning & Land Use Guide
Key Zoning Facts
Makakilo Zoning Overview
Makakilo is a census-designated place on the leeward slopes of the Waianae Range above Kapolei, offering elevated views of the Ewa plain and the coastline. The community was developed primarily in the 1970s and 1980s as a residential subdivision on hillside terrain. As part of the City and County of Honolulu, zoning and permitting are managed by the Honolulu Department of Planning and Permitting. The Makakilo Community Association provides an additional layer of community governance through CC&Rs.
Makakilo's hillside location means that many properties have steep topography, which affects construction costs and site planning for both new homes and additions. The community is almost entirely residential, with limited commercial amenities within its boundaries. Residents rely on nearby Kapolei and Ewa Beach for shopping and services. The community's elevation provides cooler temperatures and trade wind exposure compared to the lower Ewa plain.
Key Zoning Districts
Makakilo is primarily zoned R-5 and R-3.5 for single-family residential use. A small B-1 commercial area serves basic neighborhood needs. The surrounding lands below and above the residential area are largely classified as agricultural or conservation by the state Land Use Commission.
ADU Regulations
The Honolulu ohana unit ordinance applies in Makakilo, but the community association's CC&Rs may impose additional restrictions. The hillside terrain also presents practical challenges for ADU construction, including grading requirements and the need for retaining walls on sloped lots. Property owners should consult both the county and the community association before planning an ADU project.
Development Process
Building permits are processed by the Honolulu Department of Planning and Permitting. Hillside construction in Makakilo may require grading permits and geotechnical reports. The Ewa Development Plan provides policy guidance for the broader area. The Makakilo Community Association's design review process must also be satisfied for exterior modifications and new construction.
Regulatory Layers That Apply in Makakilo
Your property is subject to ALL of these regulatory layers. Each one can impose additional requirements beyond the others.
Federal
- FEMA Flood Zones: Applicable
- View FEMA Flood Map
County — Honolulu County
- Role: Property records, tax assessment, unincorporated area planning
City / Municipal
The city's zoning ordinance, building codes, and local permits form the primary layer of land-use regulation for your property.
Overlay Districts
No overlay districts identified.
Private Restrictions
- HOA / CC&Rs common: Yes
- Check HOA CC&Rs for additional restrictions. Makakilo Community Association may have design standards.
Primary Zoning Districts
- Min Lot
- 5,000 sq ft
- Max Height
- 25 ft
- Front Setback
- 15 ft
- Side Setback
- 5 ft
- Rear Setback
- 10 ft
- Min Lot
- 3,500 sq ft
- Max Height
- 25 ft
- Front Setback
- 10 ft
- Side Setback
- 5 ft
- Rear Setback
- 5 ft
- Min Lot
- None
- Max Height
- 40 ft
- Front Setback
- 10 ft
- Side Setback
- 0 ft
- Rear Setback
- 10 ft
ADU Rules in Makakilo
- 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
Permit Costs & Timelines
Specific permit fee schedules for Makakilo are available from the local planning department. Fees vary based on project type, scope, and valuation.
Check Makakilo permit fees →