Hawaii Dog Poop Laws by County
Whether you live in Hawaii or you’re visiting with your furry friend, it’s important to know that each county in the state has its own dog poop laws. These laws are in place to protect public health, the environment, and the aloha spirit that makes Hawaii so special. The last thing you want is to ruin a beach day—or get fined—because you didn’t clean up after your pet.
In this article, we’ll cover the dog poop laws by county across Hawaii, so you can stay on the right side of the law while being a considerate dog owner.
Why Dog Waste Laws Are Important in Hawaii
Dog waste isn’t just a visual problem—it’s a health hazard. In Hawaii, where much of life revolves around nature, uncollected pet waste can wash into storm drains, pollute ocean waters, and spread bacteria like E. coli. That’s why all four counties have ordinances requiring pet owners to clean up after their dogs.
Not only is cleanup the law, but it’s also a way to show respect for Hawaii’s people, land, and culture.
Is There a Statewide Dog Poop Law in Hawaii?
No, Hawaii does not have a single statewide dog poop law. However, each of its four counties—Honolulu (Oahu), Maui, Kauai, and Hawaii (Big Island)—has enacted local ordinances that mandate pet waste cleanup. Let’s go through them one by one.
Dog Poop Laws by County in Hawaii
City and County of Honolulu (Oahu)
Yes, Honolulu has a clear ordinance requiring dog owners to pick up after their pets. Under the Revised Ordinances of Honolulu (ROH), Chapter 7, dog owners must clean up their pet’s waste on public or private property that isn’t their own. Fines for noncompliance can be up to $500, especially in popular parks and beaches.
- Applies to sidewalks, parks, beaches, and trails
- Owners must carry poop bags when walking dogs
- Dog parks provide bags, but public responsibility still applies
Wondering how old your dog is in human years? Use this dog age calculator to find out quickly and adjust your care routine accordingly.
Maui County (Maui, Molokai, Lanai)
Maui County enforces a leash and sanitation law for dogs in public areas. Under Maui County Code Chapter 6.04, it’s illegal to allow a dog to defecate in any public place without cleaning it up. The ordinance also applies to other people’s private property.
Enforcement is carried out by Maui Humane Society officers, and fines can range from $100 to $500 depending on the violation and whether the owner is a repeat offender.
In tourist-heavy areas like Lahaina and Kihei, there’s often signage reminding owners to clean up after their dogs.
Kauai County
Kauai requires dog owners to clean up waste as part of local animal control ordinances. Chapter 22 of the Kauai County Code includes provisions that make it unlawful for pet owners to leave dog poop in public areas such as beaches, parks, and roadways. Violations may result in fines or citations, starting at $50.
While enforcement is more relaxed in rural areas, it’s strongly encouraged to follow best practices everywhere on the island.
Need help caring for your older pup? Find your dog’s age here to get age-specific health tips and activity advice.
Hawaii County (Big Island)
On the Big Island, it’s illegal to leave dog waste behind on public or private property not owned by you. Chapter 4 of the Hawaii County Code outlines animal control laws, including waste cleanup responsibilities.
The county works closely with Hawaii Island Humane Society to monitor public areas. While fines may vary, most citations begin at $50 and increase with multiple offenses.
From Kailua-Kona to Hilo, residents are encouraged to carry waste bags and dispose of pet waste in designated trash containers.
County-by-County Summary Table
| County | Cleanup Required? | Fine Range | Enforcement Agency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Honolulu (Oahu) | Yes | Up to $500 | Honolulu Police, Animal Control |
| Maui | Yes | $100–$500 | Maui Humane Society |
| Kauai | Yes | Starts at $50 | County Animal Services |
| Hawaii (Big Island) | Yes | $50 and up | Hawaii Humane Society |
How Are These Laws Enforced?
Enforcement in Hawaii varies depending on location, population, and local agencies. In urban areas like Honolulu and Kahului, officers are more likely to issue citations. In smaller communities, enforcement may rely on public reporting or HOA oversight.
Here’s how enforcement usually works:
- Residents can report violations to local animal control
- Parks and beaches often have signage with rules and penalties
- Dog parks may have staff or volunteers to educate pet owners
Some neighborhoods include cleanup rules in HOA or condo association guidelines, which may impose additional fines or restrictions.
Tips for Dog Owners in Hawaii
Follow these tips to stay compliant and respectful:
- Always carry doggy waste bags—even on short walks
- Use public waste stations whenever available
- Read park and beach signs for specific rules
- Teach kids and visitors about the importance of cleanup
And if you’re not sure how old your rescue dog might be, this handy age calculator can help you find out and guide your care plan.
Are There Any Exceptions?
Yes, but they are very limited. People with disabilities who cannot physically clean up after their service animals may be granted exceptions under the Americans with Disabilities Act. However, in most cases, cleanup is still expected—even for service dogs.
Regardless of where you are, best practice is to clean up every time. It shows respect for the land, the people, and your fellow dog lovers.
Conclusion
Hawaii’s dog poop laws may differ slightly between counties, but the message is the same everywhere: clean up after your pet. It’s about keeping public spaces beautiful, protecting nature, and showing aloha to everyone who shares the islands with you.
Want to take your dog care to the next level? Find out your dog’s real age and get insights that match their life stage. Responsible pet ownership starts with simple habits—and cleaning up is one of the most important ones.