HCC §5C-1-3
Which buildings must follow this building code
Read the official text at hawaiicounty.gov ↗This section says the county's building code applies to most work on buildings, like building, fixing, changing, or tearing down. But small homes, like single-family houses and townhomes up to three stories, can follow either this code or the separate residential code.
contractorsdevelopershomeowners
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 existing buildings or structures or any appurtenances connected or attached to buildings or structures. Exception: Detached one- and two-family dwellings and multiple single-family dwellings (townhomes) 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 comply with this chapter or chapter 5B, the residential building code. (2021, ord 21-61, sec 2.) 5C-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.