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HRS §708-8302

Crime of lying to get paid for unlicensed contractor work

This section makes it a crime to do contractor work without a license and trick someone out of their money or property. The trick can be lying about having a license or about needed permits. It is a specific type of fraud.

contractors

The statute, as written — Unlicensed contractor fraud

( 1) A person commits the offense of unlicensed contractor fraud if the person: (a) Engages in any activity that requires a contractor's license under chapter 444 and is not licensed as a contractor under chapter 444 when the person engages in the activity; and (b) While engaged in the activity, obtains or exerts control over the property of another by deception, with intent to deprive the other of the property. (2) For purposes of this section, "deception", as defined in section 708-800, includes deception as to the person's status as a licensed contractor or as to permits required to engage in the activity.
Read the official text at capitol.hawaii.gov ↗as published Jan 6, 2026our copy taken Aug 20, 2026

Sections this one refers to

§708-800 Definitions for this chapter

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