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HRS §342F-4.5

When construction projects do not need a noise permit

Some construction projects do not need a noise permit, but the person in charge must tell the department in writing first. The notice must include project details and an agreement to follow noise limits. Projects that are too loud, run at certain times, or use certain equipment still need a permit.

contractorsdevelopershomeownerslandowners

The statute, as written — Projects exempt from noise permit requirements

(a) Except as provided in subsection (b), any construction project: (1) For a dwelling; or (2) With a total cost of less than $250,000 based on the value of the project listed on the building permit, shall be exempt from the noise permit requirements of section 342F-4; provided that written notification of the intent to construct shall be submitted to the department by the person responsible for the construction project. The notification shall include information concerning the person responsible for the construction project, type of construction, location, and estimated duration of the construction project. The notification also shall include an acknowledgment that the construction project shall be subject to operational times and a maximum noise level of seventy-eight decibels when measured at any point at or beyond the property line of the construction premises. (b) The exemption in subsection (a) shall not apply to any construction project which: (1) Emits noise in excess of the maximum permissible sound levels established under the state community noise code adopted by the department which occur: (A) Before 7:00 a.m. and after 6:00 p.m. on Monday to Friday; (B) Before 9:00 a.m. and after 6:00 p.m. on Saturday; and (C) On Sunday and holidays; or (2) Uses hoe-rams or pile drivers; provided that subsection (a) shall not apply to a construction project that emits noise exceeding seventy-eight decibels, regardless of the time of occurrence of the noise. (c) Violation of this section shall be subject to a fine not exceeding $100 per violation; provided that each day of a violation shall constitute a separate offense; and provided further that a violation exceeding five days shall be subject to the penalties under section 342F-9(b). (d) As used in this section: "Construction" means any or all activities including those activities necessary or incidental to the erection, demolition, renovation, or alteration of buildings. "Dwelling" means a room or rooms connected together constituting an independent housekeeping unit for an individual or a family, and containing facilities for bathing, cooking, or both. "Notification" means a formal notice to the department of the intent to construct a project exempt from noise permit requirements under subsection (a).
Read the official text at capitol.hawaii.gov ↗as published Jan 6, 2026our copy taken Aug 20, 2026

Sections this one refers to

§342F-4 How to apply for and keep a permit

§342F-9 Fines for breaking noise rules and blocking inspections

LawTrove is not legal advice. The summary above is a computer-generated restatement — the authoritative text is the official version linked above.