On this page 4
§ 02
When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Kakaako and Kalaeloa Community Development Districts
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
- Exempt Minor projects below specified thresholds may qualify for Rules Clearance or Improvement Permit instead of full Development Permit
- Exempt Contact HCDA at (808) 594-0340 to determine if specific work requires HCDA review
§ 03
Application process
Application → plan check → issuance → inspection → final
- 01 Determine which HCDA permit type applies to the project
- 02 Download permit application form from https://dbedt.hawaii.gov/hcda/permits/kakaako-permits/ or pick up at HCDA office
- 03 Prepare application package: completed permit application form, Project Authorization Form (if applicant is not landowner), and required plan sets
- 04 Submit application by dropping off at HCDA office (547 Queen Street); no over-the-counter processing
- 05 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)
- 06 For Development Permits and larger projects, HCDA board review may be required, extending timeline
- 07 Receive HCDA approval, conditions, or denial
- 08 Take HCDA approval to DPP to obtain the building permit
- 09 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
§ 04
Frequently asked
Common questions about Kakaako and Kalaeloa Community Development Districts permits
01 How do I apply for a building permit in Kakaako and Kalaeloa Community Development Districts, HI? ▸
To apply for a building permit in Kakaako and Kalaeloa Community Development Districts, HI, follow these steps: 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
02 What work is exempt from building permits in Kakaako and Kalaeloa Community Development Districts, HI? ▸
Not all construction work requires a permit 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. When in doubt, confirm with the local building department before starting work.
last verified April 2026
source Hawaii Community Development Authority (HCDA) ↗
entry id permits/hawaii/honolulu/kakaako-kalaeloa
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Hawaii Community Development Authority (HCDA) before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.