Building Permit Related Inspections
Below is a description of the different types of building permit inspections and how to schedule them.
Quick Link
Building Permit Inspections
Each building permit requires at least one type of inspection. Only the contractor that signed the building permit is allowed to call the inspector. If all inspections are not complete, the building permit is not able to close and as required, a certificate of occupancy may not be issued.
You will be able to find your inspector(s) listed at the bottom of the permit that should be posted at the job site.
Inspection Scheduling
When contacting the inspector, ensure to provide the Building Permit Number, Property Location, Type of Inspection (Underground, Rough-In, Wiring, Final, Etc.), and Contact Name and Phone Number.
Prior to closing, the inspector may request for any documentation or forms to be submitted. This may include the Final Structural Special Inspection Letter, FEMA Elevation Certificate, As-Built Fire Sprinkler Shop Drawings, Fire Protection Special Inspection Report, etc.
| Type of Inspection | Inspection Request Method |
|---|---|
| Building | The Contactor, Owner (Authorized Representative) shall call the listed Building Inspector to schedule an inspection. |
| Electrical | The electrician shall fax the Electrical Inspection Request Form (808) 768-6007 (Honolulu) or (808) 768-3192 (Kapolei) |
| Plumbing | The plumber shall call the listed Plumbing Inspector to schedule an inspection |
| Storm Water Quality | The Contractor shall contact the listed ESCP Coordinator for a preconstruction inspection of the BMP installation and contact the listed SWQ inspector 2 weeks before beginning construction. |
| HFD (Fire Department) [Commercial Kitchen Hood and/or Fire Alarm] | Refer to the HFD Website. Note that fees may apply. |
Special Inspections
Special inspections are required in accordance with IBC Chapter 17 or IRC Section 109.
Special Assignment Inspections
Special Assignment Inspection allows construction to proceed prior to the issuance of a building permit per ROH Sec. 18-3.1(c). Work done under a special assignment inspection proceeds at the applicant’s risk without assurance that a building permit will be issued. Any violations discovered may result in the suspension of the special assignment inspection, a notice of violation, a stop work order, or suspension of the review of the building permit application.
Submit the Special Assignment Inspection Request Form with a check for $1,000.00 made out to the City and County of Honolulu and a set of the current plans to 650 S. King Street, 12th Floor
Please note, the Hawaiian Electric Metering release is not allowed on a Special Assignment Inspection and may only be obtained after a valid building permit has been issued.
Complaint-Driven Inspections
Inspections are also complaint driven. After a complaint is referred, an inspector will visit the site to see if there are any code violations as described. Based on the inspector’s findings, a violation may be issued to the property owner.