Navigating Wastewater Permits in Hawaii: A Step-by-Step Guide

Installing a new septic system or converting an old cesspool is a major project for any Hawaii homeowner. While the physical excavation and installation are significant undertakings, the regulatory and permitting process often causes the most confusion and anxiety. The State of Hawaii maintains strict regulations regarding Individual Wastewater Systems (IWS) to protect public health and the islands' fragile ecosystems.

At Advanced Compliance Solutions, Inc. (ACSI), we handle the engineering, permitting, and installation for our clients, ensuring a seamless process from start to finish. If you are preparing for a wastewater project, understanding the Hawaii Department of Health (DOH) permitting process is the first step. Here is a factual, step-by-step breakdown of how IWS permitting works in Hawaii, sourced directly from the DOH Wastewater Branch at health.hawaii.gov/wastewater/home/iws/.

Step 1: Hire a Licensed Civil Engineer

The State of Hawaii requires that all new Individual Wastewater Systems be designed by a Hawaii-licensed civil engineer. You cannot design the system yourself, nor can a standard plumber or general contractor submit the initial plans.

Your civil engineer will conduct a site evaluation to determine the best type of system for your property. The DOH approves several types of treatment equipment, including standard septic tanks, Aerobic Treatment Units (ATUs), and passive aerobic systems. The engineer will assess your soil composition, lot size, and proximity to groundwater or coastlines to design a compliant system. You can verify an engineer's credentials using the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA) Professional Vocational Licensing Search Tool.

Step 2: Submit Plans to the DOH Wastewater Branch

Once the design is complete, your licensed engineer will submit the plans to the DOH Wastewater Branch for review and approval. This process is handled online through the state's portal at wastewater.ehawaii.gov.

The submission must include several critical documents, including the formal Application Form, an Owner's Certification Form (which you must sign), and the detailed Site Evaluation Form. The DOH will review the engineering plans to ensure they meet all state administrative rules regarding wastewater treatment and disposal. You cannot break ground on your new system until these plans are officially approved.

Step 3: Hire a Properly Licensed Contractor

After the DOH approves the engineering plans, the physical construction can begin. However, you cannot hire just anyone to install a septic system. The State of Hawaii strictly regulates who is qualified to perform this work.

You must hire a licensed contractor holding specific license classifications: an "A" (General Engineering), "C-9" (Cesspool), "C-37" (Plumbing), "C-37a" (Sewer and Drain Line), or "C-43" (Sewer, Sewage Disposal, Drain, and Pipe Laying). The Wastewater Branch will not accept work performed by a contractor holding a license other than what is required. Again, you can verify contractor licenses through the DCCA search tool. Working with a full-service firm like ACSI simplifies this step, as the engineering and installation are handled under one roof.

Step 4: Construction and Engineer Monitoring

During the installation of your new septic or aerobic system, your licensed civil engineer must monitor the construction. This is a critical regulatory requirement. The engineer is responsible for ensuring that the contractor is building the system exactly as it was designed and approved by the DOH.

If any modifications are required due to unforeseen underground conditions - such as hitting solid lava rock - the engineer must document and approve those changes to ensure the system remains compliant with state regulations.

Step 5: Final Inspection and Approval to Use

The permitting process does not end when the dirt is backfilled. At the conclusion of construction, your engineer must submit two final documents to the DOH Wastewater Branch: the IWS Construction Inspection Report and a completed Contractor Certification Form.

Once the Wastewater Branch receives and reviews these forms, they will issue an official "Approval to Use" letter. This is the most important document in the process. Without this letter, the Wastewater Branch considers your new IWS to be in non-compliance, which can cause severe legal and financial issues, especially if you ever attempt to sell the property.

Navigating the DOH wastewater regulations requires technical expertise and careful attention to detail. By partnering with a comprehensive firm like ACSI, you eliminate the stress of coordinating between separate engineers, state inspectors, and excavation contractors. If you need assistance with a cesspool conversion or a new septic installation, contact ACSI at 808-645-4672 or visit acsihawaii.com to get started.