Everything you need to know about getting a deck permit in Honolulu: fees, requirements, exemptions, and direct links to the Honolulu Dept. of Planning & Permitting.
Permit Fees
Based on project value (fair market labor and materials). Plan Review Fee: 20% of tentative Building Permit Fee (max $25,000). Fees per ROH Chapter 18, Table 18-A.
Processing Time
2 working days for simple residential accessory structures (automatic approval); 1-4 weeks typical for standard deck review.
Apply Online
Yes — via Honolulu ePlans
Building Code
2018 IBC/IRC (Hawaii State Building Code adopted 2018 ICC editions)
Contact: (808) 768-8220
Most decks require a permit per ROH Chapter 18. Limited exemptions exist — check ROH 18 for complete list.
If your deck does NOT meet all exemption criteria, you must obtain a permit before construction. Building without a required permit can result in fines, stop-work orders, and required demolition.
Review the exemption criteria above. If your deck exceeds any threshold, a permit is required.
You'll need a site plan, deck dimensions, framing details, and footing specifications. Check Honolulu's specific documentation requirements.
Apply through Honolulu ePlans . Pay the permit fee at submission.
Once approved, post your permit visibly and schedule required inspections (typically footing, framing, and final).
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Sources
Data verified April 2026. Fees, processing times, and requirements are subject to change. Always confirm current information with Honolulu's Honolulu Dept. of Planning & Permitting.