Littering
HRS § 708-829 — a fine of at least $500, plus picking up litter, even the first time
Criminal littering is knowingly placing, throwing or dropping litter on any public or private property or in any public or private waters, except in a designated disposal place, a litter receptacle, or a litter bag later put in one. It is a petty misdemeanor.
Who handles this in Hawaii: Hawaii State Bar Association, Lawyer Referral and Information Service; and legal aid programs and the state offices, listed in the Hawaii directory.
| Conviction | Sentence |
|---|---|
| ConvictionFirst | SentenceFour hours picking up litter or doing community service, and a fine of $500 to $1,000 |
| ConvictionLater | SentenceEight hours, and a fine of $500 to $1,000 |
Having the property owner's consent is a defense. Whether a particular charge fits is a question for a licensed Hawaii attorney.
Sources for this section (1)
- HRS 708-829 — Criminal littering
Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of October 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed Hawaii attorney.