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Board raises concerns that frequent code changes and new requirements are driving construction costs up
Summary
Members said evolving requirements—such as Firewise standards and newly required structural-engineering stamps—are increasing construction costs and complicating work for architects and contractors; the HAB discussed better publicizing preapproved plans and benchmarking permitting systems.
Member Sandra Duvauchelle warned the Housing Advisory Board that frequent code changes and new requirements are adding to construction costs and complicating compliance for architects and contractors. Duvauchelle cited recent Firewise-related measures and said contractors report that single-family homes now often require a structural-engineering stamp where that was not previously required, adding to project expense.
Chair William Spence and other members noted that some county resources, including preapproved design plans (design registers), are underpublicized and could help reduce costs and timelines if better used. Member William Curtis recommended studying permit-tracking tools such as Hawaii County’s MAPPS system, which posts monthly metrics on permit submissions, processing status and issuance that can help identify bottlenecks.
