HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – The Honolulu Department of Planning and Permits has announced the launch of CivCheck, a free new artificial intelligence software designed to assist in the preparation of permit applications.
The goal is to improve the accuracy and completeness of residential building permit applications before they enter the city's review process.
“We are very excited to integrate AI into the building permit review process with the launch of CivCheck,” said Dawn Takeuchi Apna, Director of Planning and Permits.
CivCheck software allows permit applicants to verify compliance with applicable code regulations and local permit requirements at the time of application, reducing interaction with the city and speeding review time.
The tool also verifies that all required documentation has been submitted.
“One of the biggest challenges that causes permit delays is the submission of incomplete and poor-quality building permit applications, which require amendments, require additional review cycles, and lengthen the entire building permit process,” Apna said. “CivCheck aims to reduce the number of review cycles and interactions with applicants by guiding them to create higher quality and more complete building permit applications before they are submitted to DPP staff for review.”
Currently, this software is optional for users, but it is planned to eventually become a required feature.
Applicants are encouraged to visit the DPP website and create an account.
CivCheck gives users the opportunity to have their applications checked before they are sent for formal review.
“As a result, the quality of applications will improve, permit times will be shortened, and applicants will have more information,” Apna said.
This program helps applicants review plans and documents for city-specific requirements, such as code references and electrical outlets on project plans.
The software can also process handwritten submissions and check compliance with permitting and code requirements such as water withdrawal regulations, housing regulations, and land use regulations.
Once an applicant is ready to submit, they will receive a CivCheck completion certificate and ID code.
New software does not replace an official DPP review and does not guarantee permit approval.
It is currently available for residence permit applications, including single-family, duplex, and duplex projects. Accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and Ohana units, as well as new construction, additions, and renovations to all residences.
Anyone preparing a targeted project can use this software.
DPP recommends that the CivCheck submission be prepared by the person most familiar with the design of the project.
“Our platform brings transparency and predictability to the entire experience, showing applicants exactly what the DPP will review and guiding them to remediate issues before their applications reach the city,” said Dheekmata Kumar, CEO of CivCheck.
The software is expected to be available for commercial projects by mid-2026.
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