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Common Questions
We get pooling in strange spots after heavy rain. Is this a bigger problem?
Yes, this indicates the high permeability and subsidence risk inherent to Andisols over lava tubes. Surface water can quickly infiltrate, leading to uneven settling and collapse. Solving this requires a subsurface assessment. Using permeable hardscape materials like basalt lava rock or permeable concrete for patios and paths helps manage runoff at the source and is often required by the County of Hawaii Planning Department to meet stormwater standards.
How can we keep our lawn green with the current water conservation rules?
Under Stage 1 voluntary conservation, efficient water use is paramount. Smart, Bluetooth-enabled drip irrigation systems are ideal for Seashore Paspalum or St. Augustine turf. These systems apply water directly to the root zone based on evapotranspiration (ET) data, minimizing waste from evaporation or runoff on permeable soils. This technology maintains turf health while using significantly less water than traditional sprinklers, keeping you well within municipal guidelines.
Do we need a permit to regrade our backyard for better drainage?
Yes. Any significant grading or earthwork on a 0.25-acre lot typically requires a permit from the County of Hawaii Planning Department to ensure proper erosion and sediment control. Furthermore, this work must be performed by or under the supervision of a contractor licensed by the Hawaii Contractors License Board (DCCA). Using unlicensed labor for such projects risks voiding insurance, incurring fines, and creating liability for improper drainage that affects neighboring properties.
Our soil seems thin and doesn't hold water well. Is this normal for Discovery Harbour?
This is a predictable condition for lots developed around 2001. Your 25-year-old soil profile on Andisols remains immature. Volcanic ash parent material has high permeability but low organic content, leading to poor water and nutrient retention. Core aeration and incorporating composted organic matter are critical to build soil structure and support healthy turf or native plantings common in this subdivision.
Is there a lower-maintenance alternative to our constant mowing and edging?
Absolutely. Transitioning sections of high-input turf to a xeriscape of native plants like ʻŌhiʻa lehua, Naupaka, and Ma'o is a strategic, climate-adaptive solution. These species require minimal water, no regular mowing, and little to no fertilization. This approach also future-proofs your property against increasing noise ordinances targeting gas-powered blowers and mowers, aligning with the shift toward electric maintenance fleets.
What's the safest way to deal with invasive weeds without harming the ocean?
Invasive species like fountain grass or strawberry guava require targeted, manual removal or precise herbicide application. It is crucial to follow the statewide nutrient management guidelines, which restrict nitrogen use near coastal zones to prevent runoff. Treatment timing must also avoid any local fertilizer blackout dates. A soil test is the first step to determine specific amendments, ensuring any action supports soil biology without polluting groundwater.
If we have a storm-damaged tree blocking our driveway, how quickly can a crew get here?
For an emergency cleanup, a crew dispatched from the Discovery Harbour Community Association Center would take approximately 60 to 90 minutes to reach most residences. The primary route via Hawaii Belt Road (Highway 11) is reliable, but travel time accounts for securing equipment and navigating subdivision roads. This timeline prioritizes making hazards safe and complies with HOA requirements for debris removal.
Should we use wood or stone for a new patio, considering fire risk?
Given Discovery Harbour's Extreme Fire Wise rating in a High Hazard Wildland-Urban Interface zone, non-combustible materials are mandatory for defensible space. Basalt lava rock and permeable concrete are superior to wood for longevity, fire resistance, and low maintenance. These materials meet fire mitigation requirements, do not require toxic chemical treatments, and integrate seamlessly with the local volcanic landscape, providing a permanent and safe hardscape solution.
