Kakaako and Kalaeloa Community Development Districts, HI - 2026 Building Permit Guide

Permit Authority

Department

Hawaii Community Development Authority (HCDA)

Address

HCDA Planning Office, 547 Queen Street, Honolulu, HI 96813

Phone

(808) 594-0340 (Planning Staff); (808) 594-0300 (main)

Email

hcda@dbedt.hawaii.gov

Website

https://dbedt.hawaii.gov/hcda/

Online Permit Portal

Application Process

1. Determine which HCDA permit type applies to the project
2. Download permit application form from https://dbedt.hawaii.gov/hcda/permits/kakaako-permits/ or pick up at HCDA office
3. Prepare application package: completed permit application form, Project Authorization Form (if applicant is not landowner), and required plan sets
4. Submit application by dropping off at HCDA office (547 Queen Street); no over-the-counter processing
5. HCDA reviews application (approximately 7 working days for renovations and Rules Clearance permits; Improvement Permits on lots 20,000 sq ft or less reviewed by Executive Director)
6. For Development Permits and larger projects, HCDA board review may be required, extending timeline
7. Receive HCDA approval, conditions, or denial
8. Take HCDA approval to DPP to obtain the building permit
9. Obtain DPP building permit, then begin construction
10. Complete construction and pass all required DPP inspections
11. For Kakaako Makai projects, also coordinate with State Office of Planning for Special Management Area (SMA) use requirements if applicable

Source: Hawaii Community Development Authority (HCDA)

General Requirements

Work That Does NOT Require a Permit

• Minor projects below specified thresholds may qualify for Rules Clearance or Improvement Permit instead of full Development Permit
• Contact HCDA at (808) 594-0340 to determine if specific work requires HCDA review

Inspections

How to Schedule

Additional Resources

• License lookup guide: Hawaii Contractor License Requirements
• Contract template: Hawaii Homeowner-Contractor Agreement
• Hawaii hub: Hawaii Contractor License & Permit Hub

Frequently Asked Questions

Kakaako and Kalaeloa Community Development Districts Building Permit FAQ

How do I apply for a building permit in Kakaako and Kalaeloa Community Development Districts, HI?

1. Determine which HCDA permit type applies to the project 2. Download permit application form from https://dbedt.hawaii.gov/hcda/permits/kakaako-permits/ or pick up at HCDA office 3. Prepare application package: completed permit application form, Project Authorization Form (if applicant is not landowner), and required plan sets 4. Submit application by dropping off at HCDA office (547 Queen Street); no over-the-counter processing 5. HCDA reviews application (approximately 7 working days for renovations and Rules Clearance permits; Improvement Permits on lots 20,000 sq ft or less reviewed by Executive Director) 6. For Development Permits and larger projects, HCDA board review may be required, extending timeline 7. Receive HCDA approval, conditions, or denial 8. Take HCDA approval to DPP to obtain the building permit 9. Obtain DPP building permit, then begin construction 10. Complete construction and pass all required DPP inspections 11. For Kakaako Makai projects, also coordinate with State Office of Planning for Special Management Area (SMA) use requirements if applicable

What work is exempt from building permits in Kakaako and Kalaeloa Community Development Districts, HI?

The following work is generally exempt: Minor projects below specified thresholds may qualify for Rules Clearance or Improvement Permit instead of full Development Permit; Contact HCDA at (808) 594-0340 to determine if specific work requires HCDA review.