HDOA has established a new interim rule to help stop the movement of CRB to other islands. The new interim rule is based on the previous interim rule established in July 2022. It is valid for one year, while HDOA finalizes the permanent rule.
The interim rule restricts the movement of CRB host material from an area designated to be infested to a non-infested area. The entire island of Oahu is designated as an infested area and all other islands in the State are considered to be non-infested areas.
In the new interim rule, CRB host material includes:
Palm plants in the genera Cocos, Livistona, Phoenix, Pritchardia, Roystonea, and Washingtonia
Decomposing plant material such as compost, wood tree chips and mulch
Plant propagation media
Landscaping material and erosion control socks
The movement of CRB host material from an infested area to a non infested area in the state is prohibited except by permits issued by HDOA. Only host palms shorter than 48 inches measured from the soil-line to the lowest frond are eligible for permits.
Any individual, company or organization that violates the rule will be charged with a
misdemeanor and fined not less than $100 and up to $10,000. Penalties for a second offense committed within five years will require the violator to pay for the cost of clean-up and decontamination fees to remove contaminated materials, and the cost to fully eradicate any CRB infestations caused by the violation. Repeat violators will be fined not less than $500 and up to $25,000.
For the full interim rule 23-1, click here.