Bill > HB1725

This bill aims to streamline and stabilize building code regulations in Hawaii by establishing that the building codes, standards, and any county-specific amendments in effect at the time a county issues an "authorization to proceed with construction" (which includes permits for early work like foundations or special inspections) will apply for the entire duration of the project, preventing mid-project code changes that cause costly rework, with a narrow exception for imminent life-safety threats. It also clarifies that the International Residential Code will apply to certain smaller multi-family buildings (triplexes and fourplexes) and allows counties to adopt their own amendments to the state building code under specific conditions, while moving the state building code adoption cycle from every two years to every six years to provide more predictability. Additionally, the bill appropriates funds for the State Building Code Council to hire staff and consultants to support these updated processes.