Hawaii
Updated 5/4/2025
Overview
In Hawaii, building code adoption is managed at both the state and county levels, leading to variations across jurisdictions. The Hawaii State Building Code Council (SBCC) establishes the state building codes, which serve as minimum standards. They must adopt codes within 2 years of publication. Once adopted by the state, counties are required to adopt these codes within two years, with the option to implement local amendments. Essentially from publication to adoption at the county level can be up to a 4 year process.
CodePro Uses the Following Codes for Answers:
- 2018 IRC (International Residential Code) + Hawaii State Amendments
- 2018 UPC (Uniform Plumbing Code) + Hawaii State Amendments
- 2020 NEC (National Electric Code)
Additional Resources
Click Here To Visit The State Specific Website
IMPORTANT: Hawaii has suspended mandatory adoption of new state codes due to an emergency proclamation aimed at affordable housing and to mitigate complications of rebuilding after recent wildfires. The proclamation is scheduled to end on 6/3/25. However, the proclamation has been extended 12 times. The link above can be used to verify the current status.
Local County Info:
Hawaii has four major counties, each with its own building departments responsible for amending and enforcing state codes:
- City and County Of Honolulu: Typically aligns closely with state codes.
- Hawaii County (Big Island): Adopts state codes but may amend them to address rural and volcanic conditions unique to the Big Island.
- Maui County: Includes Maui, Molokai & Lanai. Typically adopts the state codes with minor amendments to suit local needs, such as wind zone requirements.
- Kauai County: Adopts state codes but often makes amendments for environmental concerns like flood zones and hurricane resistance.
- Adoption Category
Hybrid
- Amendments