BIA Hawaii Second Annual Survey Shows Permitting Delays Remain a Major Concern Despite DPP Modernization Efforts
News Release from Building Industry Association of Hawaii, September 30, 2026
HONOLULU, Hawaiʻi (September 30, 2026) – The Building Industry Association of Hawaii (BIA Hawaii) today released the results of its September 2026 building permit processing survey, revealing that industry professionals continue to experience substantial delays and uncertainty in the permitting process despite recent technology investments and operational changes at the City and County of Honolulu Department of Planning and Permitting (DPP).
The survey indicates that many contractors, architects, engineers, and permit applicants continue to report extended permit processing times and challenges navigating the review process.
"BIA Hawaii supports modernization efforts to the permitting process and appreciates the Department's willingness to work with industry stakeholders," said Roseann Freitas, CEO of BIA Hawaii. "However, our survey results suggest that, from the applicant's perspective, the permitting experience still isn't improving at the pace needed to address Hawaii's housing and infrastructure needs. BIA Hawaii will continue working with industry stakeholders and DPP to identify what’s not working, share what we’re hearing from our members, and help find practical solutions. We want to be part of improving the system and making the permitting process work better for everyone.”
While BIA Hawaii recognizes that DPP is working through legacy permits, staffing shortages, and implementation challenges associated with HNL Build, the survey indicates that many applicants continue to experience lengthy review periods and inconsistent outcomes. These delays contribute to increased construction costs, financing risks, and housing affordability challenges throughout Oʻahu.
BIA Hawaii supports Honolulu City Council Resolution 26-214 that directs the City Auditor to conduct a performance audit of the DPP to assess its policies, procedures, and controls.
Independent evaluation can help identify process bottlenecks, verify performance metrics, and establish measurable accountability standards to ensure continuous improvement. The association believes a transparent review process can strengthen public confidence and help prioritize solutions that reduce permitting timelines while maintaining health and safety standards.
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About the Building Industry Association of Hawaii
The Building Industry Association of Hawaii (BIA Hawaii) is the voice of the construction industry and Hawaii's leading not-for-profit trade organization chartered by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) in 1955, with more than 300 professional members across the industry including developers, contractors, suppliers, realtors, and associate companies. BIA Hawaii is a proud supporter and advocate of housing at all price points, and our members work together to build the living spaces that kama'aina call home. Together, we educate, advocate, and grow. Industry Elite Partners are Armstrong Builders, Castle & Cooke Homes Hawaii, Gentry Homes, Honsador Lumber, and HPM Building Supply. 2026 Corporate Sponsors include Hawaiian Dredging, Haloa Construction, Inspired Closets Hawaii, Lung Rose Voss Wagnild, Hawaiian Electric Company, Howard Hughes Communities and Kapili Roofing and Painting.
Visit www.biahawaii.org to stay informed of industry news and view the membership directory, calendar of events, and class schedule.