Hawaii laws by category

In Hawaii consumer fireworks are permit-based and tightly limited: HRS 132D-5.5 (Act 243, 2025) makes it unlawful to purchase, possess, set off or discharge them without a permit required under HRS 132D-10, or at any time outside the statutory windows — a $200 fine. Exceptions may apply — read the full rule.

A Hawaii License to Carry is required to carry a handgun in public. Exceptions may apply — read the full rule.

Hawaii is not a control state: beer, wine and spirits are all sold in grocery, convenience and liquor stores, licensed by each county liquor commission. Retail is privately operated.

Radar detectors are legal in passenger vehicles — Hawaii has no state ban on them.

In Hawaii, open burning is generally prohibited statewide (HAR 11-60.1-52), and backyard burning of garbage and yard waste has been banned on all islands since January 2012. Exceptions may apply — read the full rule.

In Hawaii, whether you need a fishing license depends on where you fish. Exceptions may apply — read the full rule.

No sales tax — Hawaii levies a General Excise Tax (GET) on businesses instead: 4% on most activities (0.5% wholesaling/manufacturing), plus a 0.5% county surcharge in all four counties (Honolulu, Kauai, Hawaii and Maui, each through 2030). Exceptions may apply — read the full rule.

Recreational cannabis is illegal in Hawaii, and medical use is allowed only through the Department of Health registry (the 329 card). Small amounts are decriminalized. Broader legalization failed in the 2026 session.

In Hawaii, any person who hunts, serves as a guide, or accompanies or assists a hunter in public hunting areas must wear an exterior blaze orange garment (shirt, vest, coat or jacket). Exceptions may apply — read the full rule.

Hawaii has no legal sports betting of any kind. 2025-2026 legalization bills failed.

Hawaii requires all operators of a motorized vessel over 10 hp to complete a NASBLA- and state-approved boating safety course and carry proof of certification.

Automatic/switchblade knives are illegal statewide to make, sell, transfer, possess, or transport (misdemeanor) under HRS 134-52.

Hawaii makes it drone trespass to cross a property line and come within 50 ft of a dwelling to coerce, intimidate or harass an occupant (HRS 711-1125, renumbered from 711-1114).