Everyone wants to know about Hawaii's permitting rules. Admittedly these are a bit complex. Many people will expound on the items in the exclusion list found in Chpt 18 of Revised Ordinances of Hawaii (Permitting) and some unwittingly face difficulties.

While some items found on this list may apply to your particular situation, there are other sections of the code (that will tend to nullify exclusions) found in the total permitting code where the Honolulu Planning and Permitting Department (HPPD) does rigorously enforce.

These additional sections describe some simple rules:  

>for work over $1000 (materials and labor combined) then the work needs to be permitted.

>Also, if the work includes any plumber work over $1000 in a 12 month period on your property or any electrical work over $500 in a 12 month period then either work (materials and labor) must be permitted.

>Finally, any contractor performing work over $1000 (materials and labor) must secure an approved building permit PRIOR to starting any work. The Regulated Industries Control Office (RICO) requires all contractors to be 'good citizens' (my interpretation) abiding by the law.

You should beware of those who propose 'no need to get permit'. Take a moment to review the 'Permitting Basics' page and the benefits available to home owners who secure a building permit. 

The Fire Department is very keen on Smoke Alarms as the early warning device for saving lives. So the plan reviewers will be checking what is shown and stated on the drawings about smoke alarms and if the smoke alarms are shown in the proper locations on the drawings. See the section below about smoke alarms for more information.

Note: as of August 2017 special new rules apply to properties if the work will alter the grounds in any way. 

Three resources are listed that could be helpful. Each will take you to a State web address or a State supplied pdf so you can view and download if you wish.