Honolulu's Department of Planning and Permitting (DPP) has taken its legacy permitting system, Posse, offline as of the close of business today, July 28, 2025, and is transitioning to its new HNL Build system, which launches next Monday. This shift signifies a critical update for developers, contractors, and anyone involved in construction projects within the city and county of Honolulu. The transition to a new system promises to streamline the permit application process, but its effectiveness remains to be seen, and businesses should be prepared for potential disruptions.
The existing permitting process has been a source of frustration for both developers and the city. Long wait times and complex procedures have been common complaints. Civil Beat's reporting highlighted that the city's permitting system is expected to speed up with new tech. KITV News also discussed about how the new technology should be implemented by the end of summer with the intention of improving efficiency.
For entrepreneurs and business owners in the real estate and construction sectors, the change could impact project timelines and operational efficiency. Delays in permitting can lead to increased costs and missed deadlines, affecting profitability. The new HNL Build system is designed as a user-friendly platform, with the goal of accelerating permit approvals. It’s anticipated that there will be an adjustment period. Developers and contractors should familiarize themselves with the new online portal's features, as well as any new documentation requirements.
Implementing a more efficient permitting system could stimulate development and investment in Honolulu. The city's commitment to modernization, as demonstrated by this technology upgrade, aims to create a more business-friendly environment. While DPP suggests this change is a step forward, Civil Beat noted that discrepancies in approval times existed previously, and the new system will need to be properly evaluated to determine its success in reducing the time from application to approval for all projects.
The successful implementation of HNL Build is crucial for Honolulu's economic growth. A smoother permitting process has the potential to attract new businesses and encourage existing ones to expand, all while contributing to the creation of jobs and stimulating investment in the local economy.
