HCC §5A-1-3
Which buildings must follow this code and which are exempt
Read the official text at hawaiicounty.gov ↗This section says the county's building rules apply to most building work, like building, fixing, moving, or tearing down a structure. But separate single-family homes, duplexes, and small townhouses can follow a different residential code instead, as long as they have storm debris protection on openings.
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The ordinance, as written (Hawaiʻi County) — Scope; exceptions
A copy, taken August 21, 2026. The version published by Hawaiʻi County is the one that governs, and it may have changed since. Check it before relying on anything here.
This chapter shall apply to the design, construction, alteration, movement, enlargement, replacement, repair, equipment, use and occupancy, location, removal and demolition of buildings or structures or any appurtenances connected or attached to such buildings or structures. Exception: Detached one- and two-family dwellings and multiple single-family dwellings and townhouses not more than three stories above grade plane in height with a separate means of egress and their accessory structures not more than three stories above grade plane in height shall be permitted to comply with the residential building code, chapter 5B, Hawai‘i County Code if provided with debris impact protection in accordance with Section 1609.2 Protection of Openings. Exception 3 in Section 1609.2 shall not apply. (2020, ord 20-61, sec 3; am 2021, ord 21-61, sec 14.) 5A-1-3
Published by the County of Hawaiʻi Office of the County Clerk.
LawTrove is not legal advice. The summary above is a computer-generated restatement — the authoritative text is the official version linked above.