Bill > HB284

This bill addresses housing permit delays in Hawaii by requiring counties to grant building permits within 60 days under specific conditions. The legislation introduces a "shot clock" mechanism similar to those used in states like Texas and Florida, mandating that single-family and multi-family housing project permits must be issued within two months if certain requirements are met. These requirements include the permit application being stamped by licensed engineers and architects who certify that plans comply with building codes and infrastructure capacity is adequate. If a county does not approve or reject the permit within 60 days, the permit is automatically deemed approved, with exceptions for non-compliance with state or county laws. To be considered complete, developers must also provide documentation showing the project does not impact historic properties, archaeological resources, burial sites, or flood hazard areas. The bill aims to reduce Hawaii's historically long permit processing times, which a University of Hawaii study found can take between one to one-and-a-half years, potentially driving up housing costs and discouraging new housing development. By streamlining the permit process, the legislation seeks to increase housing supply and provide more certainty for developers.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=284&year=2025