HomeMy WebLinkAboutHow to Start a Business in Hawaii County - ADA
How to Start a Business in
Hawai‘i County
A resource guide to successful business development
Hawai‘i County Business Resource Center
A PROGRAM OF THE COUNTY OF HAWAI‘I DEPARTMENT OF
RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT
Photo Credit: Tom Kuali‘i / Extreme Exposure
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Introduction
This guide is intended to serve as a resource for new entrepreneurs and existing business owners in Hawai‘i
County. It is not a comprehensive collection of all possible resources, rather it provides a high-level roadmap
for navigating the local small business regulatory and business assistance maze. The Hawai‘i County Business
Resource Center is committed to supporting our Island’s entrepreneurs in partnership with other small
business supporting organizations.
All information in this guide is current as of July 22, 2015.
Please let us know what you found helpful and what we missed so that we can better serve you.
Hawai‘i County Business Resource Center
A Program of the Department of Research and Development
County of Hawai‘i
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Contents
Introduction ........................................................................................................................................................... i
I. GETTING STARTED – THE BASICS ....................................................................................................................... 1
STARTING A BUSINESS IN HAWAI‘I COUNTY IN TEN STEPS .............................................................................. 1
Tips for Choosing the Right Business Structure ............................................................................................ 3
Federal and State Tax Tips ............................................................................................................................ 5
ENTREPRENEURIAL ASSISTANCE RESOURCES ................................................................................................... 7
County of Hawai‘i .......................................................................................................................................... 7
State of Hawai‘i ............................................................................................................................................. 7
Chambers of Commerce ............................................................................................................................... 8
Business Incubators ...................................................................................................................................... 8
Online Assistance .......................................................................................................................................... 8
II. REGISTRATION .................................................................................................................................................. 9
BUSINESS REGISTRATION .................................................................................................................................. 9
EMPLOYER REGISTRATIONS ............................................................................................................................ 10
Federal Employer Identification Number ................................................................................................... 10
State Withholding Identification Number .................................................................................................. 10
TRADE NAME, TRADEMARKS, SERVICE MARKS .............................................................................................. 12
Federal Trademark Office ........................................................................................................................... 12
Patents ........................................................................................................................................................ 12
Copyright ..................................................................................................................................................... 12
Miscellaneous Business Registrations ........................................................................................................ 13
III. LICENSES, PERMITS AND CERTIFICATIONS ..................................................................................................... 14
HAWAI‘I COUNTY BUSINESS LICENSES ............................................................................................................ 14
Taxicabs ....................................................................................................................................................... 14
Liquor License ............................................................................................................................................. 15
COUNTY BUILDING AND ZONING PERMITS .................................................................................................... 15
Building, Electrical, Plumbing, and Sign Permits ......................................................................................... 16
STATE OF HAWAI‘I LICENSES, CERTIFICATIONS AND PERMITS ....................................................................... 16
Agriculture Licensing, Certification and Permits ......................................................................................... 16
Child Care Licensing .................................................................................................................................... 17
Commercial Activities on State Land .......................................................................................................... 18
Commercial Water Craft Use Permits ......................................................................................................... 18
Fishing Licenses ........................................................................................................................................... 19
Food Service ................................................................................................................................................ 19
Geothermal Permit ..................................................................................................................................... 20
Health Care Facilities .................................................................................................................................. 20
Professional and Vocational Licenses ......................................................................................................... 21
Work in State Highway Right-of-Way ......................................................................................................... 22
FEDERAL LICENSES AND PERMITS ................................................................................................................... 22
IV. SMALL BUSINESS RESOURCES........................................................................................................................ 25
AGRICULTURE ................................................................................................................................................. 25
Cooperative Extension Services .................................................................................................................. 25
Internal Revenue Service Agriculture Tax Center ....................................................................................... 25
Start2Farm.gov ........................................................................................................................................... 25
Soil and Water Conservation District Program (SWCD) .............................................................................. 25
BOOKEEPING AND ACCOUNTING ................................................................................................................... 26
BUSINESS INCUBATORS .................................................................................................................................. 26
BUSINESS BENCHMARKING ............................................................................................................................ 26
BUSINESSES FOR SALE ..................................................................................................................................... 27
EDUCATION ..................................................................................................................................................... 27
FINANCING SOURCES ...................................................................................................................................... 27
State of Hawai‘i Agricultural Loan Division, Department of Agriculture .................................................... 27
Farm Credit Services of Hawai‘i, ACA .......................................................................................................... 27
Hawai‘i Island Food Producers Fund ........................................................................................................... 27
Office of Hawaiian Affairs ........................................................................................................................... 28
United States Department of Agriculture Rural Development ................................................................... 28
United States Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency ................................................................. 28
HEDCO Local Development Corp. ............................................................................................................... 28
Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) / Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) ........................ 28
Hawai‘i Small Business Innovation Research Program (HISBIR) ................................................................. 29
HAWAI‘I TAX INCENTIVES ............................................................................................................................... 29
Motion Picture, Digital Media and Film Production Income Tax Credit ..................................................... 29
Enterprise Zones ......................................................................................................................................... 29
Tax Credit for Solar and Wind Energy ......................................................................................................... 30
IMPORTING/EXPORTING ................................................................................................................................. 30
U.S. Customs and Border Protection .......................................................................................................... 30
The Hawai‘i Foreign-Trade Zone ................................................................................................................. 30
Export-Import Bank ..................................................................................................................................... 30
U.S. Export Assistance Center ..................................................................................................................... 31
Western United States Agricultural Trade Association............................................................................... 31
Agriculture Phytosanitary Certificate .......................................................................................................... 31
Agriculture Import Permits ......................................................................................................................... 31
LABOR AND WORKFORCE ............................................................................................................................... 31
NEWSLETTERS ................................................................................................................................................. 32
PERIODICALS ................................................................................................................................................... 32
PRODUCT LABELING ........................................................................................................................................ 32
Bar Coding ................................................................................................................................................... 32
Hawai‘i Seal of Quality ................................................................................................................................ 32
Hawai‘i-Grown Coffee Labeling Requirements ........................................................................................... 33
Agriculture Commodity Grading and Labeling ............................................................................................ 33
Better Business Bureau ............................................................................................................................... 33
Ecolabeling .................................................................................................................................................. 33
SIGNS............................................................................................................................................................... 34
SUSTAINABILITY .............................................................................................................................................. 34
Kona-Kohala Chamber of Commerce Kuleana Green Business Program ................................................... 34
State of Hawai‘i Green Business Program .................................................................................................. 34
United States Environmental Protection Agency Publications ................................................................... 34
TRADE AND INDUSTRY ASSOCIATIONS IN HAWAI‘I ........................................................................................ 34
WEBSITE DEVELOPMENT ................................................................................................................................ 35
V. DIRECTORY OF COUNTY AND STATE AGENCIES .............................................................................................. 37
COUNTY OF HAWAI‘I ....................................................................................................................................... 37
Aging, Office of............................................................................................................................................ 37
Civil Defense Agency ................................................................................................................................... 37
Corporation Counsel ....................................................................................................................................... 37
County Council ............................................................................................................................................ 37
County Clerk, Office of ................................................................................................................................ 37
Environmental Management, Department of ............................................................................................ 38
Finance, Department of .............................................................................................................................. 38
Purchasing Division ..................................................................................................................................... 38
Real Property Tax Division .......................................................................................................................... 38
Vehicle Registration and Licensing Division ................................................................................................ 38
Fire Department .......................................................................................................................................... 39
Housing (Office of Housing and Community Development) ....................................................................... 39
Human Resources Department ................................................................................................................... 39
Information Technology Department ......................................................................................................... 39
Liquor Control, Office of ............................................................................................................................. 40
Legislative Auditor, Office of ....................................................................................................................... 40
Mass Transit Agency ................................................................................................................................... 40
Parks and Recreation, Department of ........................................................................................................ 40
Planning Department .................................................................................................................................. 41
Police Department, Hawai‘i ........................................................................................................................ 41
Prosecuting Attorney, Office of the ............................................................................................................ 41
Public Works, Department of ..................................................................................................................... 41
Research and Development, Department of .............................................................................................. 42
Water Supply, Department of ..................................................................................................................... 42
STATE OF HAWAI‘I .......................................................................................................................................... 43
Accounting and General Services (DAGS), Department of ......................................................................... 43
Agriculture (HDOA), Department of ........................................................................................................... 43
Attorney General (AG), Department of ...................................................................................................... 43
Budget and Finance (B&F), Department of................................................................................................. 43
Business, Economic Development & Tourism (DBEDT), Department of .................................................... 43
Commerce & Consumer Affairs (DCCA), Department of ............................................................................ 44
Defense (DOD), Department of .................................................................................................................. 44
East-West Center ........................................................................................................................................ 44
Education (DOE), Department of ................................................................................................................ 44
Governor, Office of the ............................................................................................................................... 45
Hawaiian Affairs (OHA), Office of ............................................................................................................... 45
Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL), Department of .......................................................................................... 45
Health, (DOH), Department of .................................................................................................................... 45
Human Services (DHS), Department of ....................................................................................................... 45
Information Management & Technology (OIMT), Office of ....................................................................... 45
Judiciary ...................................................................................................................................................... 46
Labor & Industrial Relations (DLIR), Department of ................................................................................... 46
Land & Natural Resources (DLNR), Department of ..................................................................................... 46
Legislature, Hawai‘i State ............................................................................................................................ 46
Lieutenant Governor, Office of the ............................................................................................................. 47
Public Safety (DPS), Department of ............................................................................................................ 47
Taxation, Department of ............................................................................................................................. 47
Teacher Standards Board (HTSB), Hawai‘i .................................................................................................. 47
Transportation (DOT), Department of ........................................................................................................ 47
University of Hawai‘i at Hilo ....................................................................................................................... 47
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I. GETTING STARTED – THE BASICS
STARTING A BUSINESS IN HAWAI‘I COUNTY IN TEN STEPS
Starting a business involves planning, making key financial decisions and completing a series of legal activities.
The following list of steps is not necessarily a linear process but do not skip over the first two self-assessments:
1. Ask yourself if you have the characteristics and skills needed to make a business succeed, such as:
education or work experience in your chosen industry; strong work ethic; time management skills; ability
to multitask; management skills; willingness to ask for help and advice from others; self-motivation;
resourcefulness; responsible; organized; persistent; decisive; healthy; you have a strong support system of
family and friends.
2. Analyze your personal finances. If you don’t know already, calculate: your total monthly cost of living;
identify areas where you can cut back; know your outstanding debt, amount in savings; and the amount
you need to cover 6 to 18 months of living expenses (the average time before a new business makes a
profit). Because your personal credit history will affect your ability to obtain loans, it is also a good idea to
request a free credit report from each of the nationwide credit reporting companies online at
https://www.annualcreditreport.com/index.action.
3. Think about your business idea. Ask yourself how you would respond to the following statements taken
from SCORE’s Business Concept Feasibility Go-or No-Go Decision worksheet:
I know that my idea is serving an unmet need and solving an unserviced need
I know that my product or service could be expanded to gain additional customer groups.
I know who my potential buyers are.
I have a clear value proposition for my potential buyers.
I know what it will take to start my business.
I know what it will take to run my business.
I understand what it will take to obtain funding.
I have a plan to fund my business startup.
I am ready to work hard to achieve my business goals.
I understand the challenges lying ahead and have a plan to tackle them.
The best way to make sure you’re ready to go is to write a business plan. Use existing templates that you
can find online at the SCORE and Small Business Administration websites:
https://www.score.org/resources/business-plan-template-startup-business
https://www.sba.gov/writing-business-plan (use the online business planning step-by-step tool)
The essential elements of a good business plan include:
a. Cover Page: This page lists your company name, name of the owner, address and company logo if
you have one.
b. Executive Summary: An executive summary is an introduction to your business. This section should
be clear, concise and to the point. The key elements of an executive summary include descriptions
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of: your company; products or service you sell; your audience and ideal customer; future of your
business and your industry.
c. Company Description: This is a high-level review of your business that will help readers and
potential investors understand your business model.
d. Market Research: Provide detailed information to show that you have a solid understanding of the
industry within which your business will operate.
e. Product /Service Line: this is where you describe in detail what your product or service is and how
it will meet the needs of your customers. Marketing and Sales: Describe how your company will
focus on its customers through its marketing and sales strategies.
f. Financial Projections: This section is the most important for lenders and investors because it shows
that your company is built on a solid foundation. If you do not have any financial information
prepared, research industry statistics to estimate what the profits and costs will be for your
company.
For more assistance with business planning please contact the Small Business Development Center or pick
up some worksheets and guides at the Hawai‘i County Business Resource Center.
4. Consult Professionals. You can do most of your business and market research on your own or with the
assistance of SCORE or SBDC. It is essential however that you consult certain professionals before
finalizing your business plan and moving on to business registration and business launch.
Consult an accountant who can: help you determine the best business structure (see “Choosing the
Right Business Structure” below) for your venture, help with the financial analysis in your business
plan, provide advice on the type of accounting software you may need, provide guidance on
accounting procedures that comply with government regulations, provide advice on tracking
expenses.
Consult an attorney for help with Incorporation.
Review your insurance needs with a licensed insurance adviser. Types of coverage vary depending on
your business, but may include: Workers compensation, general liability, property insurance, business
auto insurance, umbrella liability, comprehensive crime, errors and omissions, directors and officers
liability, employment practices liability, cyber liability, contaminated products insurance, international
travel, key man life insurance, and disability insurance. Before meeting with an insurance advisor, take
advantage of the free “Small Business Insurance 101” information provided by the National
Association of Insurance Commissioners online at http://www.insureuonline.org/smallbusiness.
If your business location involves the construction of a new facility, or the alteration of a leased space,
you should consult the appropriate licensed contractor(s) and architects to help you through the
permitting and zoning processes. See the County Building and Zoning Permits section of this guide.
Consult a patent attorney if you wish to file a patent or copyright.
5. Decide on your Business Name, Tradename, or DBA. Search the Hawai‘i Department of Commerce and
Consumer Affairs Business Registration site at https://hbe.ehawaii.gov/documents/search.html to make
sure there is not already a business with the same tradename and trademark.
6. Start a system of recordkeeping. Everyone in business must keep records. Keeping good records will help
you: monitor the progress of your business, prepare your financial statements, identify sources of your
income, keep track of your deductible expenses, and prepare your tax returns.
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7. Basic Regulatory Next Steps:
a. Obtain a Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) online at
http://www.irs.gov/Businesses/Small-Businesses-&-Self-Employed/Employer-ID-Numbers-EINs
b. Create an account with the Hawai‘i Business Express https://hbe.ehawaii.gov/BizEx/home.eb. (See
Business Registration section below for instructions on registering by mail)
c. Register online at the Hawai‘i Business Express for a filing with the Department of Commerce and
Consumer Affairs Business Registration Division, a Taxpayer ID from the Hawai‘i Department of Tax,
and a filing with the Hawai‘ Department of Labor and Industrial Relations if needed. (See Employer
Registration section below for instructions on registering by mail)
d. If you plan to hire employees, download and read the Hawai‘i Department of Labor and Industrial
Relations’ New Employer Packet at http://labor.hawaii.gov/ui/new-employer-registration. You may
choose to contract with an Employee Leasing Company. Search for a company through the National
Association of Professional Employer Organizations website at http://www.napeo.org.
e. Apply for the appropriate business license or professional and vocational licenses described in the
LICENSES, PERMITS AND CERTIFICATIONS of this guide.
8. Open a business banking account. The Wall Street Journal’s “How to Shop for a Bank” article contains
helpful advice. http://guides.wsj.com/small-business/funding/how-to-shop-for-a-bank
9. Launch your business.
10. Keep meticulous records. Track your progress against your business plan and make adjustments where
necessary. Join the Hawai`i County Business Resource Center’s mailing list to stay informed about
workshops and information for local small businesses.
Tips for Choosing the Right Business Structure
Please consult your attorney or tax professional. The following information is provided as a guide and not
intended to be used as legal and financial advice.
A specific business structure is generally chosen for liability and/or tax issues. It is recommended you research
each legal structure thoroughly and consult a tax accountant and/or attorney prior to making your decision.
The following descriptions are taken from the Small Business Administration. The State of Hawai`i’s
Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs Business Action Center has a useful guide to choosing the
right legal form for your business at http://files.hawaii.gov/dcca/bac/business_entity_comparison_chart.pdf.
Sole Proprietorship: A sole proprietorship is the simplest and most common structure chosen to start a
business. It is an unincorporated business owned and run by one individual with no distinction between the
business and you, the owner. You are entitled to all profits and are responsible for all your business debts,
losses and liabilities.
Partnership: A partnership is a single business where two or more people share ownership. Each partner
contributes to all aspects of the business, including money, property, labor or skill. In return, each partner
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shares in the profits and losses of the business. Because partnerships entail more than one person in the
decision making process, it’s important to discuss a wide variety of issues up front and develop a legal
partnership agreement. This agreement should document how future business decision will be made including
how partners will divide profits, resolve disputes, change ownership (bring in new partners or buy out current
partners) and how to dissolve the partnership. Although partnership agreements are not legally required, they
are strongly recommended and it is considered extremely risky to operate without one.
A partnership must file an “annual information return” to report the income, deductions, gains and losses from
the business’s operations, but the business itself does not pay income tax. Instead, the business “passes
through” any profits or losses to its partners. Partners include their respective share of the partnership’s
income of loss on their personal tax returns. There are three general types of partnership arrangements:
General Partnerships assume that profits, liability and management duties are divided equally among
partners. If you opt for an unequal distribution, the percentages assigned to each partner must be
documented in the partnership agreement.
Limited Partnerships (also known as a partnership with limited liability) are more complex than
general partnerships. Limited partnerships allow partners to have limited liability as well as limited
input with management decisions. These limits depend on the extent of each partner’s investment
percentage. Limited partnerships are attractive to investors of short-term projects.
Joint Ventures act as general partnership, but for only a limited period of time or for a single project.
Partners in a joint venture can be recognized as an ongoing partnership if they continue the venture,
but they must file as such.
“C” Corporation (Inc. or Ltd.): A corporation is an independent legal entity owned by shareholders. This means
that the corporation itself, not the shareholders that own it, is held legally liable for the actions and debts the
business incurs. Regular corporations are called “C corporations” because Subchapter C of Chapter 1 of the
Internal Revenue code is where you find general tax rules affecting corporations and their shareholders.
Corporations are more complex than other business structures because they tend to have costly administrative
fees and complex tax and legal requirements. Because of these issues, corporations are generally suggested
for established, larger companies with multiple employees.
Corporations should always be assisted by a qualified attorney
Subchapter “S” Corporation (Inc. or Ltd.): This structure is identical to the C Corporation in many ways, but
offers avoidance of double taxation. If a corporation qualifies for S status with the IRS, it is taxed like a
partnership; the corporation is not taxed, but the income flows through to shareholders who report the income
on their individual returns.
Limited Liability Companies and Partnership (LLCs and LLPs): A limited liability company is a hybrid type of
legal structure that provides the limited liability features of a corporation and the tax efficiencies and
operational flexibility of a partnership. The “owners” of an LLC are referred to as “members.” Unlike
shareholders in a corporation, LLCs are not taxed as a separate business entity. Instead, all profits and losses
are “passed through” the business to each member of the LLC. LLC members report profits and losses on their
personal federal tax returns.
Cooperative: A cooperative is a business or organization owned by and operated for the benefit of those
using its services. Profits and earnings generated by the cooperative are distributed among the members, also
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known as user-owners. Typically, an elected board of directors and officers run the cooperative while regular
members have voting power to control the direction of the cooperative. Members can become part of the
cooperative by purchasing shares, though the amount of shares they hold does not affect the weight of their
vote. A cooperative operates as a corporation and receives a “pass-through” designation from the IRS. More
specifically, cooperatives do not pay federal income taxes as a business entity. Instead, the cooperative’s
members pay federal taxes when they file their personal income tax. Members pay federal and state income
tax on the margins earned by the cooperative.
Federal and State Tax Tips
Please consult your attorney or tax professional. The following information should be used as
a guide, and not as legal financial advice.
Federal Taxes
Federal Self-Employment Tax - Every employee must pay social Security and Medicare taxes. If you are self-
employed, your contributions are made through the self-employment tax.
Federal Income Tax - Paying Federal income taxes depends upon your legal form of business (i.e. sole
proprietorship, partnership or corporation). Seek professional assistance, or go to the IRS website at
http://www.irs.gov.
Federal Payroll Tax (Federal Withholding Tax) - Any business employing a person must register with the IRS
and acquire an EIN and pay federal withholding tax at least quarterly. See the section on Employer Registration
above.
Learn more about federal tax requirements for small business the following IRS sites:
http://www.irs.gov/Businesses/Small-Businesses-&-Self-Employed
http://www.irsvideos.gov/virtualworkshop/
http://www.irsvideos.gov/SmallBusinessTaxpayer/virtualworkshop
http://www.irs.gov/Businesses/Small-Businesses-&-Self-Employed/Recommended-Reading-for-
Small-Business
State of Hawai‘i Taxes
General Excise Tax
Every person or company intending to do business in Hawai‘i, including every individual who is self-employed
or who hires employees, must apply for a General Excise Tax Identification Number. This number is assigned
by the State Department of Taxation and identifies each business for tax filing, withholding and paying
purposes. See http://tax.hawaii.gov/geninfo/get/ for more information.
County Surcharge Tax
Effective January 1, 2007, the general excise and use tax was amended to provide a county surcharge thereby
increasing the GET and Use tax rate for transactions attributable to the City and County of Honolulu. The
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County Surcharge increases the tax rate 0.5% for a total tax rate of 4.5% for transactions on Oahu. Neighbor
island businesses that do not deliver any goods or services to Oahu are not subject to the surcharge.
Transient Accommodations Tax
A 9.25% Transient Accommodations Tax (TAT) is levied on the gross rental or gross rental proceeds derived
from furnishing transient accommodations. A transient accommodation is defined as an apartment, house,
condominium, beach house, hotel room or suite, or similar living accommodation furnished to a transient
person for less than 180 consecutive days in exchange for payment in cash, goods, or services.
Other Hawai‘i State Taxes
Depending on the type of business, additional taxes may be required. For all state tax-related questions,
contact: Hawai‘i State Department of Taxation Hawai‘i District Office
Email: Tax.Hilo.Office@hawaii.gov
East Hawai‘i
State Office Building
75 Aupuni Street #101
Hilo, Hawai‘i 96720-4245
Phone (808) 974-6321
West Hawai‘i
State Office Building
82-6130 Mamalahoa Highway, #8
Captain Cook, Hawai‘i 96704
Phone (808) 323-4597
Taxpayer Services Branch
Hawai‘i State Department of Taxation
830 Punchbowl Street, Honolulu, HI 96813
Phone: 1-800-222-3229
http://tax.hawaii.gov
Hawai‘i Tax Information of interest to businesses:
Employer’s Tax Guide (2012) http://files.hawaii.gov/tax/news/pubs/12bklta.pdf
Supplemental Insert to Employer’s Tax Guide
http://files.hawaii.gov/tax/news/pubs/06bklta_sup2009.pdf
Tax Law and Guidance http://tax.hawaii.gov/legal/
Outline of the Hawai‘i Tax System as of July 1, 2014
http://files.hawaii.gov/tax/news/pubs/14outline.pdf
Tax Facts http://tax.hawaii.gov/legal/a2_b2_1taxfacts/
Tax Facts 31-1 Licensing and Tax Information for New Businesses
http://files.hawaii.gov/tax/legal/taxfacts/tf2015-31-1.pdf
Tax Facts 37-1 General Excise Tax (GET) http://files.hawaii.gov/tax/legal/taxfacts/tf2015-37-1.pdf
Taxation of Agricultural and Aquacultural Producers in Hawai‘i
http://files.hawaii.gov/tax/legal/taxfacts/tf01-02.pdf
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ENTREPRENEURIAL ASSISTANCE RESOURCES
County of Hawai‘i
Hawai‘i County Business Resource Center (HCBRC)
A program of the Department of Research and Development, the HCBRC serves as an entrepreneurial resource
for new and existing business owners who need business assistance for operations within Hawai‘i County.
Public computers are available for online applications in our Hilo and Kona offices and staff is available to assist.
Phone (808) 961-8366 / Email HCBRC@hawaiicounty.gov
Open Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Closed on state holidays
East Hawai‘i
County Building
25 Aupuni Street, Room 1301
Hilo, Hawai‘i 96720
West Hawai‘i
West Hawai‘i Civic Center
74-5044 Ane Keohokalole Highway, Building C, 2nd Floor
Kailua-Kona, Hawai‘i 96740
State of Hawai‘i
Hawai‘i Business Action Center (BAC)
Provides information on licensing requirements for State, County and Federal governments including general
excise tax license, business and trade name registration, employer registration and federal employer
identification number application. The BAC is operated by the State of Hawai‘i Department of Commerce and
Consumer Affairs. A Business Action Center Pilot Program is available in Hilo two days per month in which DCCA
personnel are on hand to assist businesses.
Hilo Business Action Center – Pilot Program
100 Pauahi Street, Suite 109, Hilo, Hawai‘i 96720
Open on the first and third Thursday of the Month from 9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Phone (808) 933-0773, Email bac@dcca.hawaii.gov
Hawai‘i Small Business Development Center Network (SBDC)
Established in 1990, the Hawai`i Small Business Development Center Network is a statewide business
assistance organization. Confidential business advising services are provide to aspiring entrepreneurs, start-
ups and existing business owners at no charge. The SBDC’s dedicated business development specialists work
to build thriving business communities and to promote economic development across the Hawaiian Islands.
The SBDC is funded in part the by U. S. Small Business Administration and the State of Hawai‘i. The program is
hosted by the University of Hawai`i at Hilo. http://www.hisbdc.org/Home.aspx
East Hawai‘i
100 Pauahi Street, Suite 109
Hilo, Hawai‘i 96720
Phone (808) 933-0776
Fax (808) 933-0778
West Hawai‘i
75-5722 Kuakini Highway, Suite 209
Kailua-Kona, Hawai‘i 96740
Phone (808) 327-3680
Fax (808) 327-3682
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Chambers of Commerce
Hawai‘i Island Chamber of Commerce http://hicc.biz/
117 Keawe Street, Suite 205
Hilo, Hawai‘i 96720
Phone (808) 935-7178
Kona-Kohala Chamber of Commerce http://www.kona-kohala.com/
75-5737 Kuakini Highway, Suite 208
Kailua-Kona, Hawai‘i 96740
Phone (808) 329-1758
Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Hawai‘i http://www.jccih.org/
714 Kanoelehua Avenue
Hilo, Hawai‘i 96720-4565
Phone (808) 934-0177
Email jccih@jccih.org
Business Incubators
Natural Energy Laboratory of Hawai‘i Authority (NELHA)
http://nelha.hawaii.gov/join-us
73-987 Makako Bay Drive
Kailua-Kona, Hawai‘i 96740
Phone (808) 327-9585
Email nelha@nelha.or
GVS (Global Virtual Studio) Transmedia Accelerator
http://www.globalvirtualstudio.com
Contact GVS through its website.
Hawai‘i TechWorks
http://www.hawaiitechworks.org
47 Rainbow Drive
Hilo, Hawai‘i 96720
Email community@hawaiitechworks.or
Online Assistance
Hawai‘i Business Express (One-Stop Registration) - Register a business name and trade name, obtain a
state general excise tax number, employee income tax withholding number and an unemployment
insurance ID number. https://hbe.ehawaii.gov/BizEx/home.eb
BusinessUSA http://business.usa.gov
SCORE https://www.score.org
United State Small Business Administration https://www.sba.gov
Internal Revenue Service http://www.irs.gov/Businesses
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II. REGISTRATION
BUSINESS, EMPLOYER, TAX, TRADENAME, AND MISCELLANEOUS
BUSINESS REGISTRATION
In Hawai‘i, corporations, partnerships, limited liability companies and limited liability partnerships are
registered with the State of Hawai‘i Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, Business Registration
Division (BREG). Registering a business with the Business Registration Division is relatively simple.
You may file online by signing up for a free account with Hawai‘i Business Express (HBE) One-Stop Registration.
Business Express is the quick and easy way to start a new business in Hawai‘i. One simple interface covers all
the forms with all the state agencies and partners. Easy-to-understand instructions and context-sensitive help
make creating a business with Business Express safe, fast and efficient.
https://hbe.ehawaii.gov/BizEx/home.eb
Be sure to have the following information on hand before registering online:
Name of your business, trade name or DBA
Your business entity type
Date your new business is going to start in Hawai‘i
Date of the first payroll in Hawai‘i
Names, addresses, phone numbers and EINs or Social Security numbers of proprietors, partners,
corporate officers, LLC members and registered agent.
Business location.
Brief description of your business activity.
Name and telephone number of the person submitting the registration.
Forms of payment (Visa, MasterCard, Discover Card, and American Express)
You may also file by mail, fax or over the counter. All state business registration, amendment, correction, and
reservation forms are available for download at http://cca.hawaii.gov/breg/registration/. These forms can
be filled out on your computer and printed. The Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs Business
Registration Division is open from 7:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday, except state holidays.
Mail or fax registrations to:
Business Registration Division
Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs
P.O. Box 40
Honolulu, Hawai‘i 96810
Phone: Residents on Hawai‘i Island may call 974-4000 followed by 6-2727 and the # sign
Fax: (808) 586-2733, Consumer Dial Fax on Demand Service: (808) 587-1234
Email address breg@dcca.hawaii.gov
To File Over-the-Counter
Hilo Business Action Center – Pilot Program
100 Pauahi Street, Suite 109
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Hilo, Hawai‘i 96720
Open on the first and third Thursday of the month from 9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Phone (808) 933-0773
EMPLOYER REGISTRATIONS
Federal Employer Identification Number
An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is also known as a federal tax identification number, and is used to
identify a business entity. Generally, businesses need an EIN. You may apply for an EIN online or by mail.
To file by mail or fax, download Form SS-4, Application for Employer Identification Number at
http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/fss4.pdf and follow the “Instructions for Form SS-4” found at
http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/iss4.pdf. You may also request a form by calling 1-800-829-3676.
Mail your completed SS-4 Form to:
Internal Revenue Service
Attn: EIN Operation
Cincinnati, OH 45999
Or, you may fax your form to: (859) 669-5760
You may also apply online at:
http://www.irs.gov/Businesses/Small-Businesses-&-Self-Employed/Employer-ID-Numbers-EINs
State Withholding Identification Number
In addition to the Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) required by the Internal Revenue Service, the
State of Hawai‘i requires that an employer obtain a Hawai‘i Employer’s Withholding Identification Number. If
you register your business online at Hawai‘i Business Express, this step is included. If you wish to file by mail or
fax, download the current State of Hawai‘i “Basic Business Application Form BB-1” at
http://labor.hawaii.gov/ui/new-employer-registration. This form is used for registering for various state tax
and employer licenses and permits, including general excise and use tax, withholding tax, and unemployment
insurance tax. Any individual or organization planning to have one or more workers performing services for
their company or organization, must file a Form BB-1 with the State Tax Office within 20 days after hiring an
employee. Certain employer elections are allowed. Mail the completed application to:
Hawai‘i Department of Taxation
P.O. Box 1425
Honolulu, Hawaii 96806-1425
Contact: Taxpayer Services, Phone: (808) 587-4242
Unemployment, Workers Compensation, Temporary Disability Insurance and
Prepaid Health Care Insurance
Hawai‘i requires all employers to pay unemployment contributions, and to obtain workers compensation
insurance, temporary disability insurance and prepaid health care insurance. Each employer must register with
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the Unemployment Insurance division Department of Labor and Industrial relations. For more information,
download the “Unemployment Handbook for Employers” at
http://labor.hawaii.gov/ui/files/2012/12/HANDBOOK_-FOR_-EMPLOYERS.pdf.
For further information contact:
Department of Labor and Industrial Relations
830 Punchbowl Street
Honolulu, Hawai‘i 96813
Phone: (808) 586-8914
Website: http://labor.hawaii.gov
Employer Resources from the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations:
For information about Workers’ Compensation, Temporary Disability Insurance, and Prepaid Health Care, go
to the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations’ Disability Compensation Division website at
http://labor.hawaii.gov/dcd.
Highlights of the Hawai‘i Workers’ Compensation Law
http://labor.hawaii.gov/dcd/files/2014/04/WC-Highlights.pdf
Highlights of the Hawai‘i Temporary Disability Insurance Law
http://labor.hawaii.gov/dcd/files/2013/01/TDI-highlights.pdf
Highlights of the Hawai‘i Prepaid Health Care Law
http://labor.hawaii.gov/dcd/files/2013/01/PHC-highlights.pdf
The Hawai‘i Civil Rights Commission provides helpful guides for employers related to discrimination,
harassment, and hiring practices http://labor.hawaii.gov/hcrc/publications/
The Occupational Safety and Health Division publishes the mandatory “Job Safety and Health
Protection on the Job” poster, and a “Handbook for Small Businesses.”
http://labor.hawaii.gov/hiosh/publications/.
The Wage Standards Division provides employer guidance on a variety of issues including pay
frequency, the Hawai‘i Family Leave Law, minimum wage standards, overtime rules, and child labor
laws. http://labor.hawaii.gov/wsd/.
The Workforce Development Division has several programs designed to assist employers including:
Apprenticeships; Employer Outreach, the Employment and Training Fund, federal bonding, Senior
Community Service Employment Program, Trade Adjustment Assistance, Workforce Investment Act,
Work Opportunity Tax Credit, Veteran Services, Volunteer Internship program, and Hirenet Hawai‘i.
http://labor.hawaii.gov/wdd/home/employers/.
East Hawai‘i
1990 Kino‘ole Street, Suite 102
Hilo, Hawai‘i 96720
Phone (808) 981-2860
Email dlir.wdd.hilo@hawaii.gov
West Hawai‘i
74-5565 Luhia Street, Building C, Bay 4
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii 96740
Phone (808) 327-4770
Email dlir.wdd.kona@hawaii.gov
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TRADE NAME, TRADEMARKS, SERVICE MARKS
Any business may register a trade name, trademark or service mark to give notice to the public of the intent
to use the trade name, trademark or service mark in Hawai‘i. Ownership of a trade name, trademark or
service mark is acquired by adoption and usage of it.
Trade names are fictitious names that are assumed by a business and that do not contain the
owner’s names.
Trademarks are words, designs, or words and designs in combination that are used as identifiers for
goods and services.
Service marks are used to identify the type of service a business provides.
File an application online through Hawai‘i Business Express https://hbe.ehawaii.gov/BizEx/home.eb. Before
filing an application, check the “Search for Business Entity & Documents” feature on Hawai‘i Business Express
if there is a registration that is substantially identical to the name you wishes to register. A check should also
be made in the telephone directory of each island and with the Department of Taxation.
Federal Trademark Office
Before registering with the United State Patent and Trademark Office, check the Trademark Electronic Search
System (TESS) database to make sure another company has not already registered a similar mark. Search online
at http://www.uspto.gov/trademarks-application-process/search-trademark-database.
Register a trademark with the United States Patent and Trademark Office online at
http://www.uspto.gov/trademarks-application-process/filing-online.
The Trademark Assistance Center has a variety of online video and animated tutorials that describe the
registration process. It also publishes a helpful guide “Protecting Your Trademark” online at
http://www.uspto.gov/sites/default/files/BasicFacts.pdf. Contact the Trademark Assistance Center at 1-800-
786-9199 (select option #1) with questions.
Patents
An invention can be protected by a U.S. Patent. The assistance of a patent attorney is invaluable because patent
procedures are detailed and technical. Patent attorneys are registered with the U.S. Patent and Trademark
Office. For further information, contact:
Inventors Assistance Center
Phone (808) 786-9199
http://www.uspto.gov/patent
Copyright
Copyright is a form of protection provided by the laws of the United States (Title 17, U.S. Code) to the authors
of “original works of authorship,” including literary, dramatic, musical, artistic, and certain other intellectual
works. This protection is available to both published and unpublished works. Section 106 of the 1976 Copyright
Act generally gives the owner of copyright the exclusive right to do and to authorize others to do the following:
reproduce the work in copies, prepare derivative works based upon the work, distribute copies of the work to
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the public by sale or other transfer of ownership, or by rental, lease, or lending, and display or perform the
work publicly. You may require a combination of copyright, patent and trademark protection for your work.
You should consult an attorney to determine what forms of intellectual property protection are best for you.
U.S. Copyright Office
101 Independence Avenue, S.E., Washington, D.C. 20559-6000
Phone (202) 707-3000, Toll-free (877) 476-0778 http://www.copyright.gov
Miscellaneous Business Registrations
Hawai‘i Brand Registry
The Department of Agriculture’s Animal Industry Division keeps track of all brands in the state. To register a
brand, complete an Application for Brand Registration which can be found online at
http://hdoa.hawaii.gov/ai/ldc/, or contact the Animal Disease Control Branch located on Oahu at (808) 483-
7106.
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III. LICENSES, PERMITS AND CERTIFICATIONS
There are a wide variety of licenses, permits and certificates that a business may need depending on the
business activity, and the sources of these licenses, permits and certificates are equally varied. This guide
begins with County license and permit requirements, followed by State and Federal requirements organized
largely by business activity.
HAWAI‘I COUNTY BUSINESS LICENSES
Hawai‘i County requires a business license for the following occupations:
Auctioneer
Firearm Sales
Purchasing, Wrecking, Rebuilding Cars
Dance Hall
Pawnbroker
Scrap Dealer
Second Hand Dealer
All forms and fees can be found at http://www.hawaiicounty.gov/finance-vrl-buslic.
Submit license applications at the following locations:
Hilo
Motor Vehicle Registration
Aupuni Center
101 Pauahi Street, Suite 5
Hilo, Hawai‘i 96720
Phone (808) 961-8351
Kailua-Kona
Motor Vehicle Registration
West Hawai‘i Civic Center
74-5044 Ane Keohokalole Hwy
Kailua-Kona, Hawai‘i 96740
Phone (808) 323-4818
Pāhoa
Motor Vehicle Registration
15-2615 Kea‘au-Pāhoa Road
Pāhoa, Hawai‘i 96778
Phone (808) 965-2721
Taxicabs
The County of Hawai‘i Mass Transit Agency is responsible for licensing and regulating taxicabs. Mass Transit
Agency personnel determine owner eligibility; inspect; issue permits; monitor compliance with administrative
and operational regulations; and investigate passenger complains and compliments. The Transportation
Commission review, approves or denies all taxicab operator permits.
If you require additional information about starting a taxicab business contact the County of Hawai‘i
Mass Transit Agency in Hilo at (808) 961-8343 or heleonbus@hawaiicounty.gov.
Taxicab Application Forms and instructions are posted online:
http://www.heleonbus.org/sandbox/taxi-application-for-certificate-of-public-convenience
To apply to be a taxicab driver and to take the test, contact the County of Hawai‘i Department of Finance,
Vehicle Registration and Licensing Division:
East Hawai‘i
Driver’s License & PMVI
349 Kapiolani Street
Hilo, Hawai‘i 96720
Phone (808) 961-2320
West Hawai‘i
West Hawai‘i Civic Center
74-5044 Ane Keohokalole Highway
Kailua-Kona, Hawai‘i 96740
Phone (808) 323-4811
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Liquor License
The County of Hawai‘i Department of Liquor Control regulates the manufacture, importation, sale and
consumption of intoxicating liquors and ensures compliance to state and county laws. A variety of permits and
licenses are issued through the Department of Liquor Control. All forms and rules are posted online at
http://www.hawaiicounty.gov/liquor-control.
East Hawai‘i
County of Hawai‘i Department of Liquor Control
Hilo Lagoon Center
101 Aupuni Street, Suite 230
Hilo, Hawai‘i 96720
Phone (808) 961-8218
West Hawai‘i
County of Hawai‘i Department of Liquor Control
West Hawai‘i Civic Center
74-5044 Ane Keohokalole Highway, Building B
Kailua-Kona, Hawai‘i 96740
Phone (808) 323-4370
COUNTY BUILDING AND ZONING PERMITS
Any building or structure being erected, constructed, enlarged, repaired, moved, improved, converted, altered,
removed, or demolished will require a building permit. A Certificate of Occupancy from the County Planning
Department is required prior to operations. Building plans are accepted by the Planning Department and online
at http://papaaukahi.hawaiicounty.gov. Several agencies are involved in building plan review including the
County Planning Department, Department of Public Works, Hawai‘i Fire Department, Department of Water
Supply, and the State Department of Health. Projects involving work in the aquatic environment, including tidal
areas and other wetlands, are subject to review by the United States Army Corps of Engineers
http://www.poh.usace.army.mil/Missions/Regulatory.aspx.
Important tips:
1. If you are planning a home-based business, complete a Home Occupation Declaration form found
online at http://www.cohplanningdept.com (click the “Planning Dept Forms” link found on the left
under the heading POPULAR LINKS) and submit to the Planning Department at either the Hilo or Kailua-
Kona offices.
2. Consult the Planning Department’s comprehensive list of Permitted Uses by Zoning District
http://www.cohplanningdept.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Permitted-Uses-Table-040913.pdf.
3. If you are planning to build, alter and existing building, or change the use of a building or leased space
(e.g., changing an office or retail space to a restaurant, or creating mixed use facilities), County
Department of Public Works Building Plans Examining staff can arrange a multi-agency pre-permitting
review at which you and your contractor can discuss your plans. Knowing all of the requirements at
the start of a project will help you stay on time and on budget.
Contact Public Works Building Division at (808) 961-8331 in Hilo or (808) 323-4720 in Kailua-
Kona and ask for a Building Plans Examiner to make an appointment.
4. Please be aware of Hawai‘i’s land use system which may determine the kinds of permits you will need.
The County Planning Department has a useful introduction to the “Hawai‘i Land Use Regulatory
System” posted online at http://www.cohplanningdept.com/resources-and-references/. You should
also familiarize yourself with the State of Hawai‘i Department of Health’s Office of Environmental
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Quality Control (OEQC) which implements the State’s Environmental Impact State Law and Rules. See
http://health.hawaii.gov/oeqc.
Building, Electrical, Plumbing, and Sign Permits
The County of Hawai‘i Department of Public Works Building Division is responsible for inspections; plan review;
enforcement of the Hawai‘i County building, electrical, plumbing and sign codes; and the design, construction
and maintenance of County-owned facilities.
File online permit applications at http://papaaukahi.hawaiicounty.gov.
Permits include: Building, Plumbing, Electrical and Signs.
Grading, Grubbing, Stockpiling, Work Within County Right-of-Way, Publication
Dispenser, Sidewalk Use and Private Waterline Installation Permits
The County of Hawai‘i Department of Public Works Engineering Division’s primary responsibility is to plan,
design, review, and construct road, bridge and flood control facilities. The division also enforces applicable
regulatory requirements for Chapter 10 Hawai‘i County code, on grading, grubbing and stockpiling, Chapter 22
on the County Right-of-Way, and Chapter 27, on flood control. The division also reviews applications for
subdivisions, ‘ohana, variance, and change of zone. Permits include: Grading, Grubbing, Work within the
County Right-of-Way, Publication Dispenser, Sidewalk Use, Stockpiling, and Private Waterline Installation.
Loading and Unloading Zones
The County of Hawai‘i Department of Public Works Traffic Division oversees installation, operation, and
maintenance of signs, traffic calming devices, traffic signals, and streetlights to prevent collisions and fatalities.
Requests for loading and unloading zones can be submitted online at
http://traffic.hawaiicounty.gov/loading-unloading-zones
STATE OF HAWAI‘I LICENSES, CERTIFICATIONS AND PERMITS
Agriculture Licensing, Certification and Permits
The State of Hawai‘i Department of Agriculture Quality Assurance Division’s Commodities Branch oversees
quality assurance of agricultural commodities; licensing of dealers in agricultural products; and mild producer
price and quota control. For more information about the Commodities Branch contact:
Hawai‘i Department of Agriculture
Quality Assurance Division
1851 Auiki Street, Honolulu, HI 96819-3100
Phone: (808) 832-0700, Fax: (808) 832-0683
Agriculture Dealer Licensing
A license from the Hawai‘i Department of Agriculture is required if you handle or sell any Hawai‘i grown
agricultural product such as plants, flowers, eggs or poultry, fresh fruits or vegetables, livestock or livestock
products AND the product was obtained or purchased by you directly from a Hawai‘i farmer or grower.
http://hdoa.hawaii.gov/qad/files/2012/12/qad-dl-2a.pdf.
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Certificate of Ownership/Movement of Agricultural Commodities
This certificate is required if you sell any amount of an agricultural product that is to be marketed for
commercial purposes; or transport agricultural commodities with a weight greater than 200 pounds or with a
value of $100 or more. Proof of ownership is the first step in establishing a paper trail to help deter
agricultural theft. If an inspector or law enforcement officer has probable cause to believe agricultural
commodities are in unlawful possession, the inspector or law enforcement officer may request proof of
ownership of the commodities, which could lead to the seizure of agricultural commodities and criminal
penalties. http://hdoa.hawaii.gov/qad/files/2012/12/DL-22AdjustedforPDFPrinting.pdf
Coffee Beans (Green)
Certification is required for green coffee shipped out of the area of production. The Department of Agriculture
Commodities Branch Application for Certification of Quality and Condition and Applicants Declaration of Origin
is available online at http://hdoa.hawaii.gov/qad/commodities-branch/60-2/.
Pesticides
Applicators and Restricted Use Pesticide Dealer Representative Certification applications and information are
managed by the Hawai‘i Department of Agriculture. Go to http://hdoa.hawaii.gov/pi/pest/pesticide-forms
for applications and instructions, or contact the Hilo District Office which serves all of Hawai‘i Island:
16 E. Lanikaula Street, Hilo, HI 96720-4303
Enforcement Section: (808) 974-4142, Christopher.M.Gerken@hawaii.gov
Education/Certification Section: (808) 974-4143, Derek.M.Shigematsu@hawaii.gov
Phytosanitary Certificate
The Department of Agriculture Plant Quarantine Branch issues Phytosanitary certificates for exporters of plant
materials and products. http://hdoa.hawaii.gov/pi/pq/export-program
Contact the Plant Quarantine Office for more information:
Hilo
16 E. Lanikaula Street
Hilo, Hawai‘i 96720-4302
Phone (808) 974-4141
Kailua-Kona
Keahole Airport
Kailua-Kona
Phone (808) 326-1077
Import Permits
The Department of Agriculture Plant Quarantine Office issues applications for import of plants, non-domestic
animals, microorganisms, and microbial products.
http://hdoa.hawaii.gov/pi/pq/import-program/plant-quarantine-application-for-permits
Contact the Plant Quarantine Office listed above for more information.
Child Care Licensing
Hawai‘i has four types of child care administrative rules under Title 17 Department of Human Services.
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1. Registration of Family Child Care Homes: A private residence, including a home, apartment, unit, or
townhouse where three to no more than six children who are unrelated to the caregiver by blood,
marriage, or adoption, at any given time.
2. Licensing of Group Child Care Centers and Group Child Care Homes:
A facility other than a private home, maintained by an individual, organization, or agency for the
purpose of providing child care to children that are twenty-four months and older.
A facility which may be an extended or modified private home, at which care is provided for
seven to twelve children, during any part of a twenty-four hour day.
3. Licensing of Infant and Toddler Child Care Centers: A facility other than a private home, maintained by an
individual, organization, or agency for the purpose of providing child care to children that are six weeks
to thirty-six months old.
4. Licensing of Before and After School Child Care Facilities: A facility other than a private home, maintained
by an individual, organization, or agency for the purpose of providing child care before the opening of the
regular school day and/or after the close of the regular school day during the academic year for children
four years and eight months and older who are enrolled in public or private elementary schools.
Licensing for child care providers is issued by the State Department of Human Services.
See http://humanservices.hawaii.gov/bessd/child-care-program/child-care-licensing for complete application
instructions, and links to applicable Hawai‘i Administrative Rules and all forms.
State Child Care Licensing Units in Hawai‘i County:
East Hawai‘i
Central Hilo Unit
1990 Kino‘ole Street, Suite 109
Hilo, Hawai‘i 96720
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 1562
Hilo, Hawai‘i 96721-1562
Phone (808) 981-7290
West Hawai‘i
North Kona 2 Unit
Kona Center
75-5722 Hanama Place, Suite 1105
Kailua-Kona, Hawai‘i 96740
Phone (808) 327-4755
Commercial Activities on State Land
The State of Hawai‘i Department of Land and Natural Resources’ Land Division issues “Wiki” permits for
persons or companies desiring a right-of-entry permit for a beach wedding or other commercial activity on
unencumbered State lands. Complete information and links to the online permitting system are posted online
at http://dlnr.hawaii.gov/ld/commercial-activities.
Commercial Water Craft Use Permits
All operators of commercial vessels, water craft or water sports equipment must obtain a commercial use
permit from the Department of Land And Natural Resources, Division of Boating and to operate on State ocean
waters. Fees vary. Complete instructions are included on the Division of Boating and Ocean Resources web
page http://dlnr.hawaii.gov/dobor/commercial-use-permit-qa/.
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Fishing Licenses
The State of Hawai‘i Department of Land and Natural Resources’ Division of Aquatic Resources issues
recreational and commercial fishing licenses, permits and vessel registration. Please see the Division’s licensing
and permits page for complete information http://dlnr.hawaii.gov/dar/licenses-permits.
Aquaculture Dealer License
Aquaculture Facility License
Aquarium Permit
Bait License
Bottom fish Fishing Vessel Registration (See http://dlnr.hawaii.gov/dar/fishing/bottom-fishing for
more information on bottom fishing).
Commercial Marine License is required for any person to take marine life for commercial purposes.
Fees vary.
Kona Crab/Lobster Closed Season Sales License is required for any dealer or restaurant to sell or
serve during the closed season any Kona crab or lobster lawfully caught during the open season. Fee,
$50.00.
Special Marine Product License is required for any importer, wholesaler, retailer, or restaurant to
possess, sell, or offer for sale any marine animal or product prohibited or restricted by regulations.
Fee, $50.00.
West Hawai‘i Aquarium Permit is required for any person to use fine mesh net to collect aquatic life
for an aquarium in the West Hawai`i Regional Fishery Management Area. Fee, none.
Food Service
Food Safety Certification Service
Contact the Hawai‘i Department of Agriculture’s Commodities Branch for information about Good Agricultural
Practices audits for farm, greenhouse and harvest crew; and Good Manufacturing Practices audits which
include cooler/cold storage, packinghouse with or without Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP)
processing with or without HACCP and Storage and Distribution Centers. For more information visit
http://hdoa.hawaii.gov/qad/commodities-branch or call the Commodities Branch Quality Assurance Division
in Honolulu at (808) 832-0700.
Food Sale and Restaurant Permits
The State of Hawai‘i Department of Health issues the following permits:
Food Establishment Permit Applications: For a permit to operate a restaurant, bar, caterer, market,
convenience store, lunch-wagon, push cart or other type of “permanent” food establishment.
http://health.hawaii.gov/san/permit-applications/food-establishment-permit-applications/
Temporary Food Establishment Application: For a permit to hold a temporary food sale such as a
fundraiser, craft fair, carnival, food show or other event held for a limited period of time.
http://health.hawaii.gov/san/permit-applications/temporary-food-establishment-permit-
applications
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Commissary Agreement: Agreement between owners of a permitted commissary and a food
establishment requiring a commissary.
http://health.hawaii.gov/san/permit-applications/commissary-agreement
The State of Hawai‘i Department of Health’s Sanitation Branch Website contains food safety resources,
education and templates in addition to all required forms: http://health.hawaii.gov/san/food-information.
East Hawai‘i
State of Hawai‘i Department of Health
Sanitation Branch
1582 Kamehameha Avenue
Hilo, Hawai‘i 96720
Phone (808) 933-0917
West Hawai‘i
State of Hawai‘i Department of Health
Sanitation Branch
79-1020 Haukapila Street, #115
Kealakekua, Hawai‘i 96720
Phone (808) 322-1507
Geothermal Permit
The State of Hawai‘i Department of Land and Natural Resources’ Engineering Division issues permits for
Geothermal Exploration and Geothermal Drilling. Forms and instructions are posted online at
http://dlnreng.hawaii.gov/geothermal/.
Health Care Facilities
Certificate of Need
The State of Hawai‘i Department of Health’s State Health Planning and Development Agency (SHPDA)
administers the Certificate of Need Program, which authorizes new healthcare facilities. Applications are
available online at http://health.hawaii.gov/shpda/certificate-of-need/blank-application-forms. For
information on how Certificate of Need applications are reviewed and awarded, go to
http://health.hawaii.gov/shpda/certificate-of-need or contact
State Health Planning and Development Agency
1177 Alakea Street #402
Honolulu, Hawai‘i 96813
Phone (808) 587-0788
Email SHPDA@doh.hawaii.gov
Health Care Facility Licensing
The State of Hawai‘i Department of Health’s Office of Health Care Assurance (OHCA) performs all state licensing
activities on healthcare facilities, agencies and organizations in Hawai‘i. This includes conducting all on-site
state licensing inspections and Medicare certification inspections on behalf of the United States Centers for
Medicare and Medicaid Services.
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Adult Day Health Centers, General Health Care Facilities, Home Health Agencies,
ESRD Facilities
The Medicare Section of the OHCA (http://health.hawaii.gov/ohca/home/medicare-section) monitors
compliance with state licensing rules and ensures the quality of care for certain medical facilities which must
be licensed by the State. These include: adult health centers, ambulatory surgical centers, home health
agencies, hospitals, intermediate care facilities for individuals with intellectual disabilities, skilled nursing and
intermediate care facilities and clinical laboratories. The Medicare Section is also responsible for federal
inspection and certification activities for Medicare and Medicaid providers including ambulatory surgical
centers, home health agencies, hospitals, intermediate care facilities for individuals with intellectual
disabilities, skilled nursing facilities, end-stage renal disease facilities, hospices, rehabilitation agencies, rural
health clinics, and portable x-ray facilities.
Adult Day Health Center
http://health.hawaii.gov/ohca/home/medicare-section/opening-an-adult-day-health-center
General Health Care Facility
http://health.hawaii.gov/ohca/home/medicare-section/opening-a-general-health-care-facility
Home Health Agency
http://health.hawaii.gov/ohca/home/medicare-section/opening-a-home-health-agency
ESRD (End Stage Renal Disease) Facility
http://health.hawaii.gov/ohca/home/medicare-section/opening-an-esrd-end-stage-renal-disease-facility
Adult Residential Care Homes, Assisted Living Facilities, Therapeutic Living
Programs, Special Treatment Facilities
The State Licensing Section of the Office of Health Care Assurance monitors compliance with licensing rules
and ensures quality of care for certain community based facilities which must be licensed by the State, but
which are not eligible for Medicare participation. These facilities include adult residential care homes (ARCH),
expanded ARCH (E-ARCH), assisted living facilities (ALF), developmentally disabled domiciliary homes (DDDH),
therapeutic living programs (TLP) and special treatment facilities (STF). See the State Licensing Section website
for more information http://health.hawaii.gov/ohca/state-licensing-section.
Professional and Vocational Licenses
The State of Hawai‘i requires licensing for certain professions and occupations. To learn more about a specific
licensing area, contact:
Professional and Vocational Licensing Division
Hawai‘i State Department of Commerce & Consumer Affairs
Telephone: (808) 586-3000
Website: http://cca.hawaii.gov/pvl/
Email: pvl@dcca.hawaii.gov
Boards Programs
Accountancy
Acupuncture
Activity Desk
Athletic Trainers
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Boards Programs
Barbering and Cosmetology
Boxing
Chiropractor
Contractor
Dentist and Dental Hygienist
Electrician and Plumber
Elevator Mechanic
Engineer, Architect, Surveyor and Landscape
Architect
Massage Therapy
Medical and Osteopathy (MD. DO, EMT-Basic, EMT-
Paramedic, Physician Assistant and Podiatrist)
Motor Vehicle Industry
Motor Vehicle Repair
Naturopathic Medicine
Nursing
Optometry
Pest Control
Pharmacy and Pharmacist
Physical Therapy
Private Detective and Guard
Psychology
Real Estate
Speech Pathology and Audiology
Cemetery and Pre-Need Funeral Authority
Collection Agency
Condominium Property Regimes
Dispensing Optician
Electrologist
Employment Agency
Hearing Aid Dealer and Fitter
Marriage and Family Therapist
Mental Health Counselor
Mixed Martial Arts Contests
Nurse Aide
Nursing Home Administrator
Occupational Therapist
Port Pilot
Real Estate Appraiser
Respiratory Therapist
Social Worker
Subdivision
Time Share
Travel Agency
Uniform Athlete Agents
Work in State Highway Right-of-Way
Permits for Activities with a State Highway Right-of-Way
The State of Hawai‘i Department of Transportation issues a variety of permits for activities that take place
within a State Highway Right-of-Way. See the Highway Division’s Guide to Permits at
http://hidot.hawaii.gov/highways/home/doing-business/guide-to-permits.
Permit to Operate Oversized and Overweight Vehicles on State Highways
Apply for a permit at the Hawai‘i District Office
50 Makaala Street, Hilo, HI 96720
Sal Panem, Hawai‘i District Engineer
(808) 933-8866
FEDERAL LICENSES AND PERMITS
If your business is involved in activities supervised and regulated by a federal agency – such as selling alcohol,
firearms, commercial fishing, etc. – then you may need to obtain a federal license or permit. Here is a brief list
of business activities that require these forms and information on how to apply.
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Agriculture - If you import or transport animals, animal products, biologics, biotechnology or plants across
state lines, you’ll need to apply for a permit from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). See the USDA
Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service Permits and Certification webpage for more information.
http://www.aphis.usda.gov/wps/portal/aphis/resources/permits
Alcoholic Beverages - If you manufacture, wholesale, import, or sell alcoholic beverages at a retail location,
you will need to register your business and obtain certain federal permits (for tax purposes) with the U.S.
Treasury’s Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB). The website has a number of online tools that
make this process straightforward. If you are just starting a business in this trade, start by reading the TTB’s
New Visitors Guide which offers helpful information for small business owners. Go to
http://www.ttb.gov/nu/index.shtml
Aviation - Does your business involve the operation of aircraft; the transportation of goods or people via air;
or aircraft maintenance? If so, you’ll need to apply for one or more of the following licenses and certificates
from the Federal Aviation Administration:
FAA Licenses and Certificates- Get licensing information for airmen, aircraft, airports, airlines and
medical aviation services. http://www.faa.gov/licenses_certificates
Pilot Licenses and Training Requirements http://www.faa.gov/pilots
Aircraft Mechanic Licenses http://www.faa.gov/mechanics
Firearms, Ammunition and Explosives - Businesses who manufacture, deal and import firearms,
ammunitions and explosives must comply with the Gun Control Act’s licensing requirements. The Act is
administered by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Refer to the following
resources from the ATF to make sure your business is properly licensed.
Firearms Industry Guide– Includes information on obtaining and renewing a federal firearms license,
importing firearms and ammunitions, and more. https://www.atf.gov/firearms/tools-services-
firearms-industry
Explosives Industry Guide– Find out how to get a federal explosives license.
https://www.atf.gov/content/explosives
Fish and Wildlife - If your business is engaged in any wildlife related activity, including the import/export of
wildlife and derivative products, you must obtain an appropriate permit from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
http://www.fws.gov/permits
Commercial Fisheries - Seafood Inspection Program: The NOAA Seafood Inspection Program offers a variety
of professional inspection services on a fee-for-service basis which assure compliance with all applicable food
regulations and additional buyer specifications. Inspection services include establishment sanitation inspection
system and process audits, product grading and inspection; and laboratory analyses. See the NOAA Fisheries
website at http://www.seafood.nmfs.noaa.gov.
Commercial fishing businesses are required to obtain a license for fishing activities from the NOAA Fisheries
Service. http://www.nmfs.noaa.gov/sfa/
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Maritime Transportation - If you provide ocean transportation or facilitate the shipment of cargo by sea,
you’ll need to apply for a license from the Federal Maritime Commission.
http://www.fmc.gov/resources/ocean_transportation_intermediaries.aspx.
Mining and Drilling - Businesses involved in the drilling for natural gas, oil or other mineral resources on
federal lands may be required to obtain a drilling permit from the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management,
Regulation and Enforcement (formerly the Minerals Management Service).
Nuclear Energy - Producers of commercial nuclear energy and fuel cycle facilities as well as businesses involved
in the distribution and disposal of nuclear materials must apply for a license from the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory
Commission. http://www.nrc.gov/about-nrc/regulatory/licensing/fees.html.
Radio and Television Broadcasting - If your business broadcasts information by radio, television, wire, satellite
and cable, you may be required to obtain a license from The Federal Communications Commission (FCC).
https://www.fcc.gov/encyclopedia/consumer-information-obtaining-licenses.
Transportation and Logistics - If you operate an oversize or overweight vehicle, you’ll need to abide by the
U.S. Department of Transportation offers guidelines on maximum weight. Permits for oversize / overweight
vehicles are issued by the Hawai‘i State Department of Transportation.
http://www.ops.fhwa.dot.gov/freight/sw/permit_report/index.htm#obt.
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IV. SMALL BUSINESS RESOURCES
AGRICULTURE
Cooperative Extension Services
The University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources operates eight
Research Experiment Stations and three Extension Offices on Hawai‘i Island. Anyone involved in agriculture
should avail themselves of Extension Office services.
http://www.ctahr.hawaii.edu/AspNet/Extprograms.aspx
East Hawai‘i
Komohana Research Extension Center
875 Komohana Street
Hilo, Hawai`i 96720
Phone (808) 981-5199 / Email Beaumont@ctahr.hawaii.edu
West Hawai‘i
Kona Extension Office
79-7381 Mamalahoa Highway
Kealakekua, Hawai‘i 96750
Phone (808) 322-4891 / Email Kona@ctahr.hawaii.edu
North Hawai‘i
Kamuela Extension Office
67-5189 Kamamalu Road
Kamuela, Hawai‘i 96743
Phone (808) 887-6183
Email Kamuela@ctahr.hawaii.edu
Internal Revenue Service Agriculture Tax Center
http://www.irs.gov/Businesses/Small-Businesses-&-Self-Employed/Agriculture-Tax-Center
Start2Farm.gov
The website Start2Farm.gov not only has great guides for developing your new farm business plan, but also a
database of farming and agriculture resources by zip code. http://start2farm.gov
Soil and Water Conservation District Program (SWCD)
Web http://dlnr.hawaii.gov/swcd/
The Hawai‘i Association of Conservation Districts are comprised of 16 Soil and Water Conservation Districts
throughout the State. Soil and Water District Staff provide technical assistance to farmers at no cost to:
Optimize the use of natural resources on farmers’ properties and decrease soil erosion
Improve water use efficiency and minimize the environmental impact of farming
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Become familiar with government regulations and receive guidance on how to prevent violations
Comply with lease requirements
Qualify for county Grading, Grubbing and Stockpiling permit exemptions.
Hāmākua, Ka‘ū, Puna and Waiākea SWCDs
NRCS Hilo Service Center—Federal Building
154 Wai‘ānuenue Avenue, Suite 322, Hilo, Hawai‘i 96720
Phone (808) 933-8350
Mauna Kea SWCD
NRCS Waimea Service Center
Parker Ranch Shopping Center
67-1185 Mamalahoa Highway, Suite H148, Kamuela, Hawai‘i 96743
Phone (808) 885-6602
BOOKEEPING AND ACCOUNTING
The following accounting software has helpful online tutorials and small business tips. Always consult your
tax professional when choosing an accounting method.
QuickBooks Tutorials http://quickbooks.intuit.com/tutorials/for-all-businesses
Xero https://www.xero.com/us
BUSINESS INCUBATORS
Natural Energy Laboratory of Hawai‘i (NELHA)
73-987 Makako Bay Drive
Kailua-Kona, Hawai‘i 96740
Phone (808) 327-9585 / Email nelha@nelha.org
Web http://nelha.hawaii.gov/join-us/
GVS Transmedia Accelerator
http://www.globalvirtualstudio.com
Contact through the Global Virtual Studio website
Hawai‘i TechWorks
47 Rainbow Drive
Hilo, Hawai‘i 96720
Email community@hawaiitechworks.org
Web http://www.hawaiitechworks.org
BUSINESS BENCHMARKING
Biz Stats www.bizstats.com
Compare your company performance to others in the same industry
SizeUp https://www.sizeup.com
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A business intelligence tool that uses data from hundreds of sources including the Census Bureau, U.S. Patent
and Trademark Office, the Bureau of Economic Analysis, IRS records, county courthouse filings, Yellow Pages
and White Pages, business publications, the U.S. Postal Service, and corporate annual reports to provide a
comprehensive overview to small- and medium-sized business about their competitiveness and where to find
resources to improve.
BUSINESSES FOR SALE
http://www.bizbuysell.com/hawaii-businesses-for-sale/
EDUCATION
Brush up on your skills at the University of Hawai‘i Community College http://hawaii.hawaii.edu and the
Office of Continuing Education and Training http://www.ocethawcc.org.
200 West Kawili Street, Hilo, HI 96720, Phone (808) 934-2500
FINANCING SOURCES
State of Hawai‘i Agricultural Loan Division, Department of Agriculture
The Department of Agriculture offers a variety of direct loan programs: New Farm Loan, Qualified Farmer Loan,
Part-Time Farmer Loan, Food Manufacturing Loan, Aquaculture Loan, Alternative Energy Loan, and Emergency
Loan programs. The Department also provides loan guarantees and participation loans through private lenders.
http://hdoa.hawaii.gov/agl/
For more information:
East Hawai‘i
75 Aupuni Street, Suite 104
Hilo, Hawai‘i 96720
Phone (808) 323-7591
West Hawai‘i
82-6130 Mamalahoa Highway
Captain Cook, Hawai‘i 96704
Phone (808) 323-7591
Farm Credit Services of Hawai‘i, ACA
Farm Credit Services of Hawai‘i provides credit and related services to farmers, ranchers, fishermen, nursery
owners and country home owners throughout the state. http://www.hawaiifarmcredit.com
988 Kino`ole Street, Hilo, HI 96720
Phone (808) 961-3708
Hawai‘i Island Food Producers Fund
A collaboration between The Kohala Center, the County of Hawai‘i, and Kiva Zip, the Hawai‘i Island food
Producers Fund provides zero percent interest loans to Hawai‘i Island food producers through the peer-to-peer
online lending program Kiva Zip. http://kohalacenter.org/business/microloan-kiva
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Office of Hawaiian Affairs
The OHA Hua Kanu Business Loan is available to Native Hawaiians who own established business. It is meant
to provide them access to credit and capital that allow them to grow as well as remain financially viable.
Financing is offered up to $1,000,000. The agency refers potential loan applicants to a technical assistance
provider who guides the applicant in completing the loan application. Applicants do not apply directly with a
servicing bank. http://www.oha.org/loans
United States Department of Agriculture Rural Development
USDA provides funding opportunities for rural small businesses through loans, loan guarantees and grants.
Go to http://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/programs-services-businesses for more information, or
contact the State office:
Federal Building, Room 311
154 Waianuenue Avenue
Hilo, Hawai‘i 96720
Phone (808) 933-8380
State Office Website http://www.rd.usda.gov/hi
See also the United States Department of Agriculture National Agricultural Library’s Small Farm Funding
Resources http://ric.nal.usda.gov/small-farm-funding
United States Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency
The United States Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency offers a wide variety of farm loan
programs which are described online at:
http://www.fsa.usda.gov/programs-and-services/farm-loan-programs/index.
HEDCO Local Development Corp.
HEDCO LDC is a non-profit organization certified and licensed by the Small Business Administration to
administer their 504 Loan Program in the State of Hawai‘i. The SBA 504 Loan Program is used to finance the
acquisition of fixed assets that have a useful life of at least 10 years. http://hedcoldc.com
222 S. Vineyard St. PH1
Honolulu, Hawai‘i 96813
Phone (808) 521-6502
Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) / Small Business Technology
Transfer (STTR)
The Small Business Innovation Research Program is a grant program that encourages domestic small
businesses to engage in Federal Research that has the potential for commercialization. The Small Business
Technology Transfer is another program that expands funding opportunities in the federal innovation
research and development arena.
For more information go to https://www.sbir.gov/about/about-sbir#sbir-program.
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Hawai‘i Small Business Innovation Research Program (HISBIR)
The High Technology Development Corporation (HTDC) manages a matching grant program to help Hawai‘i
SBIR Phase I awardees to enhance their SBIR project development and compete for the Phase II awards.
http://www.htdc.org/sbir
INNOVATE Hawai‘i
Mānoa Innovation Center
2800 Woodlawn Drive, Suite 100
Honolulu, Hawai‘i 96822
Phone (808) 539-3603
Email info@innovatehawaii.org
HAWAI‘I TAX INCENTIVES
Depending on the business activity that your company performs, you may qualify for tax incentives.
Motion Picture, Digital Media and Film Production Income Tax Credit
This is a refundable tax credit based on a production company’s Hawaii expenditures while producing a
qualified film, television, commercial, or digital media project. The credit equals 20% of qualified production
costs incurred on Oahu, and 25% on the neighbor islands. For more information go to the State Film Office
website http://filmoffice.hawaii.gov/incentives-tax-credits.
Enterprise Zones
The Enterprise Zones (EZ) program is a joint State and County effort intended to stimulate certain types of
business activity, job preservation, and job creation in areas where they are most appropriate or most needed.
There are currently six zones on Hawai‘i Island. If a business is eligible and is located in an Enterprise Zone,
state taxes may be reduced and county benefits provided for up to seven years by satisfying Enterprise Zone
hiring and gross receipts requirements. Agricultural and manufacturing businesses may apply for a three year
extension increasing participation to ten years.
Participating businesses are eligible for 100% exemption from state wholesale general excise tax (.5%), 20-80%
non-refundable credit on state income tax, and a non-refundable state tax credit for the cost of unemployment
insurance premiums. Businesses are also eligible for a three-year exemption from any increase in county
property taxes resulting from new construction.
For more information go to http://invest.hawaii.gov/business/ez/ or contact:
Hawai‘i County Enterprise Zones Coordinator
Department of Research and Development
25 Aupuni Street, Room 1301
Hilo, HI 96720
Phone: (808) 961-8496
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Tax Credit for Solar and Wind Energy
The Hawai‘i Renewable Energy Technologies Income Tax Credit allow individuals or corporations to claim an
income tax credit of 20% of the cost of equipment and installation of a wind system and 35% of the cost of
equipment and installation or a solar thermal or photovoltaic system. Renewable Energy Technologies Income
Tax Credit information: http://tax.hawaii.gov/geninfo/renewable/
IMPORTING/EXPORTING
U.S. Customs and Border Protection
The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is responsible for ensuring that all goods entering and exiting
the United States do so in accordance with all applicable U.S. laws and regulations. See the TRADE section of
the agency’s website at http://www.cbp.gov/trade/basic-import-export.
Importers may also wish to obtain guidance from private-sector experts who specialize in importing, for
example, licensed customs brokers, attorneys or consultants. Customs brokers are persons, partnerships, or
corporations who assist businesses with international imports and exports. Regardless if the method of
shipping is by air, land, or water, customs brokers serve as the middlemen to ensure all international
procedures are followed. Customs brokers must be licensed by the United States Customs and Border
Protection and they must show that they are knowledgeable of federal custom and border regulations.
The Hawai‘i Foreign-Trade Zone
Hawai‘i’s Foreign-Trade Zone #9 is a duty-free, secure location authorized by the federal government that is
legally outside of the customs territory of the United States. By operating in a Foreign-Trade Zone, companies
are able to reduce some of the risks and costs that accompany international transactions. There are two
Foreign-Trade Zone locations on Hawai‘i Island: Hilo FTZ Site V adjacent to Hilo international Airport, and the
NELHA Zone in Kailua-Kona.
The Foreign-Trade Zone program in Hawai‘i is operated by the State of Hawai‘i Department of Business,
Economic Development and Tourism. Inspectors from the Honolulu District of the U.S. Customs Service
supervise and audit all Zone activities. Visit http://ftz9.org for more information.
Export-Import Bank
The Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM) is the official export credit agency of the United States.
EXIM is an independent, self-sustaining Executive Branch agency with a mission of supporting American jobs
by facilitating the export of U.S. goods and services.
U.S. Export-Import Bank
811 Vermont Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20571
Phone: (800) 565-3946
Website: http://www.exim.gov
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U.S. Export Assistance Center
U.S. Export Assistance Centers provide trade promotion and export-finance assistance for entrepreneurs.
Hawai‘i U.S. Export Assistance Center
Foreign Trade Zone #9, 521 Ala Moana Blvd., Room 214, Honolulu, HI 96813
Phone: (808) 522-8040, Fax: (808) 522-8045
Email: John.Holman@trade.go
Website: http://www.export.gov/hawaii
Western United States Agricultural Trade Association
Western United States Agricultural Trade Association (WUSTA) manages the FundMatch Program (formerly
known as the Branded Program) which provides a 50% cost reimbursement to food and agricultural exporters
for promotional activities conducted in international markets. The FundMatch Program is funded through the
Market Access Program (MAP) of the Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS), United States Department of
Agriculture (USDA). https://www.wusata.org/whatwedo/fundmatchprogram/apply/
Agriculture Phytosanitary Certificate
The State of Hawai‘i Department of Agriculture Plant Quarantine Branch issues Phytosanitary certificates for
exporters of plant materials and products. http://hdoa.hawaii.gov/pi/pq/export-program
Contact the Plant Quarantine Office for more information
Hilo
16 E. Lanikaula Street
Hilo, Hawai‘i 96720-4302
Phone (808) 974-4141
Kona
Keahole Airport
Kailua-Kona
Phone (808) 326-1077
Agriculture Import Permits
The State of Hawai‘i Department of Agriculture Plant Quarantine Office issues applications for import of
plants, non-domestic animals, microorganisms, and microbial products.
http://hdoa.hawaii.gov/pi/pq/import-program/plant-quarantine-application-for-permits
Contact the Plant Quarantine Office (see above) for more information.
LABOR AND WORKFORCE
The State of Hawai‘i Department of Labor and Industrial Relations (DLIR) Disability Compensation Division
administers the Workers’ Compensation law, the Temporary Disability Insurance law, and the Prepaid Health
Care law. All employers with one or more employees, whether working full-time or part-time, are directly
affected. Go to http://labor.hawaii.gov/dcd/ for more information.
The Hawai‘i Civil Rights Commission provides helpful publications and guides for employers related to
discrimination, harassment, and hiring practices. http://labor.hawaii.gov/hcrc/publications
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The DLIR Occupational Safety and Health Division publishes the mandatory “Job Safety and Health
Protection on the Job) poster and a Handbook for Small Businesses. Both can be found online at
http://labor.hawaii.gov/hiosh/publications/.
The DLIR Wage Standards Division provides employer guidance on a variety of issues include pay
frequency, the Hawai‘i Family Leave Law, minimum wage standards, overtime rules and child labor
laws. http://labor.hawaii.gov/wsd/
The DLIR Workforce Development Division has several programs designed to assist employers
including: Apprenticeship, Employer Outreach, Employment and Training Fund, Federal Bonding,
Senior Community Service Employment Program, Trade Adjustment Assistance, Workforce
Investment Act, Work Opportunity Tax Credit, Veteran Services, Volunteer Internship Program, and
Hirenet Hawai‘i. http://labor.hawaii.gov/wdd/home/employers/
The Hawai‘i Labor Relations Board provides lists of Labor Organizations and Public Sector Employee
Organizations at http://labor.hawaii.gov/hlrb/.
NEWSLETTERS
Hawai‘i Island Chamber of Commerce’s “Chamber Connection” http://hicc.biz
Kona-Kohala Chamber of Commerce’s “Kona-Kohala Connections”
http://www.kona-kohalanews.com
Kailua Village Business Improvement District http://historickailuavillage.com
The Ka‘ū Calendar http://www.kaucalendar.com
Waimea Community Association http://waimeatown.org
Keaohou – University of Hawai`i at Hilo Research and Scholarly Activity
http://hilo.hawaii.edu/keaohou
PERIODICALS
Hawai‘i Tribune-Herald, Phone (808) 935-6621, http://www.hawaiitribune-herald.com
West Hawai‘i Today, Phone (808) 329-9311, http://www.westhawaiitoday.com
PRODUCT LABELING
Bar Coding
UPC Barcodes (Universal Product Codes) are required on products by retailers and distribution centers.to
http://www.gs1us.org/get-started to obtain a licensed GS1 Company Prefix. The GS1 (Global Standards
Organization) is a nonprofit membership organization that provides barcode labeling assistance to its
members.
Hawai‘i Seal of Quality
The State of Hawai‘i Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Development Division administers the Hawai‘i
Seal of Quality program. To meet program standards, all fresh agricultural products must be entirely produced
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in Hawai‘i. See http://hdoa.hawaii.gov/add/md/seals-of-quality or contact the Agricultural Development
Division, Market Development Branch at (808) 973-9595 or hdoa.md@hawaii.gov.
Hawai‘i-Grown Coffee Labeling Requirements
The State’s “Hawai‘i-Grown Coffee Law”, §486-120.6, Hawai‘i Revised Statutes, list the mandatory labeling and
advertising requirements for all Hawaii-grown coffee. Complete information is available online at
http://hdoa.hawaii.gov/qad/commodities-branch/60-2/. You may also contact the Department of Agriculture
Commodities Branch in Kailua-Kona at (808) 323-7589.
Agriculture Commodity Grading and Labeling
The State of Hawai`i Department of Agriculture’s Commodities Branch can advise you on grade standard and
labeling requirements for eggs, feed, flowers and foliage, fresh fruits and vegetables, processed products and
seed certification. Its website provides useful links to federal standard for these commodity groups. Go to
http://hdoa.hawaii.gov/qad/commodities-branch for more information, or contact the Commodities Branch in
Honolulu at (808) 832-0700.
Better Business Bureau
Accreditation with the Better Business Bureau enables you to market your business as a trustworthy brand.
http://www.bbb.org/hawaii
Ecolabeling
To differentiate your product or service as environmentally sound, consider obtaining certification from an
independent third-party. Being certified means that you can include their label on your product label and other
marketing materials. Examples of third-party certifications are included below organized by business activity:
Products: Green Seal http://www.greenseal.org, and UL GREENGUARD and ECOLOGO
http://industries.ul.com/environment
Agriculture, Manufacturing and Electricity: SCS Global Services http://www.scsglobalservices.com
Buildings: The U.S. Green Building Council http://www.usgbc.org
Chlorine-Free Products: Chlorine Free Products Association http://www.chlorinefreeproducts.org
Energy Efficient Products: ENERGY STAR http://www.energystar.gov
Organic Produce: USDA Agricultural Marketing Service, National Organic Program go to
http://www.ams.usda.gov and click on National Organic Program
Renewable Energy: Center for Resource Solutions Green e-Certification Program http://www.green-
e.org
Wood Products: Forest Stewardship Council https://us.fsc.org
For a directory of ecolabels, go to http://www.ecolabelindex.com/.
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SIGNS
Hawai‘i County regulates three categories of signage. Which category applies depends on the residential,
commercial and agricultural district in which your signage will be erected and if signage is permitted with or
without a permit. Complete descriptions are included in “What’s Your Sign?” available online at
http://records.co.hawaii.hi.us/WebLink8/1/doc/69503/Electronic.aspx.
SUSTAINABILITY
Kona-Kohala Chamber of Commerce Kuleana Green Business Program
Qualifying business receive recognition in the Chamber website and “Source” magazine in addition to other
benefits such as participation in collective marketing campaigns, educational workshops and technical
assistance. http://www.kona-kohala.com/home/kuleana-green-business-program.html/
State of Hawai‘i Green Business Program
The Hawai‘i Green Business program assists and recognizes businesses that strive to operate in an
environmentally and socially responsible manner. The initiative is a partnership between Hawai‘i’s Department
of Health, Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism, and the Chamber of Commerce of
Hawai‘i. For more information and to enroll, go to
http://energy.hawaii.gov/green-business-program/hgbp-program-description/
United States Environmental Protection Agency Publications
“Smart Steps to Sustainability—A Guide to Greening Your Small Business”
http://www.epa.gov/osbp/pdfs/smart_steps_greening_guide_042101.pdf.
TRADE AND INDUSTRY ASSOCIATIONS IN HAWAI‘I
American Marketing Association - Hawai‘i Chapter http://www.amahawaii.org
Big Island Association of Nurserymen http://www.hawaiiplants.org
Big Island Visitors Bureau http://www.gohawaii.com/en/big-island/
Building Industry Association of Hawai‘i http://www.biahawaii.org
Electrical Contractors Association of Hawai‘i http://ecahi.com
General Contractors Association of Hawai‘i http://www.gcahawaii.org
Hawai‘i Agritourism Association http://www.hiagtourism.org
Hawai‘i Alliance of Nonprofit Organizations http://hano-hawaii.org/newhano
Hawai‘i Association of Environmental Professionals http://www.haep.org
Hawai‘i Association of Public Accountants http://hawaiiassociationofpublicaccountants.com
Hawai‘i Athletic Trainers Association http://www.hawaii-ata.org
Hawai‘i Beekeepers Association http://www.hawaiibeekeepers.org
Hawai‘i Business Travel Association http://hawaiibta.org/index.php
Hawai‘i Chocolate and Cacao Association https://hawaiichocolate.org
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Hawai‘i Coffee Association http://www.hawaiicoffeeassoc.org
Hawai‘i Ecotourism Association http://www.hawaiiecotourism.org
Hawaii Employers Council http://www.hecouncil.org
Hawai‘i Export Nursery Association http://www.hena.org
Hawai‘i Food Industry Association http://www.hawaiifood.com
Hawai‘i Food Manufacturers Association http://www.foodsofhawaii.com
Hawai‘i Independent Insurance Agents Association http://www.hiia.org
Hawai‘i Island Contractors Association http://www.hicassociation.com
Hawai‘i Island Landscape Association http://hilahawaii.com
Hawai‘i Island Realtors http://hawaiiislandrealtors.org
Hawai‘i Lodging and Tourism Association http://hawaiilodging.org
Hawai‘i Lumber Products Association http://www.hawaiilumber.com
Hawai‘i Organic Farming Association http://www.hawaiiorganic.org
Hawai‘i Papaya Industry Association http://www.hawaiipapaya.com
Hawai‘i Restaurant Association http://hawaiirestaurant.org
Hawai‘i Spa Association http://www.hi-spa.com
Hawai‘i Tourism Association http://www.hawaiitourismassociation.com
Hawai‘i Tropical Flower Council http://hawaiisflowers.com
Hawai‘i Tropical Fruit Growers http://www.hawaiitropicalfruitgrowers.org
Healthcare Association of Hawai‘i http://hah.org
Musicians Association of Hawai‘i http://musicianshawaii.com
Native Hawaiian Hospitality Association http://www.nahha.com
Retail Merchants of Hawai‘i https://www.rmhawaii.org
Sustainability Association of Hawai‘i http://www.sahawaii.org
The Activities and Attractions Association of Hawai‘i http://www.a3h.org
The Concierge Association of Hawai‘i http://www.conciergehawaii.org
West Hawai‘i Association of Realtors http://www.konarealtors.com
WEBSITE DEVELOPMENT
To compete in today’s market place, a business must have an online presence. You may choose to either hire
a professional to help you or, if you are creative and comfortable with technology you may choose to design
your own. Consider how much time you have to devote to website development and social media updates. It
may be more cost effective to hire a professional rather than taking time away from your business.
Folyo helps startups find web designers by connected them with a curated list of talented freelancers.
While Hawai‘i Island has great local talent, and we encourage you to buy local, the Folyo blog has some
interesting content, such as “How much does a Website Cost? And other Pricing Questions”
http://blog.folyo.me/how-much-does-a-website-cost-and-other-pricing-questions/
View the free online workshops provided by SCORE on website development. Registration is free.
https://www.score.org/onlineworkshops/search?text=website/
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Optimize your web presence for mobile use. According to eMarketer (http://www.emarketer.com) local
mobile searches are projected to exceed desktop searches for the first time in 2015.
Choose a Domain Name. See Entrepreneur’s infographic of tips on how to create a short, catchy and
memorable domain name at http://www.entrepreneur.com/article/228466. Tips include:
Use your Domain as a branding tool
Be short, catchy and memorable
Consider the Extension - .com, .net, .org, .info, .co – one option is to purchase several extensions and
direct them all to the same site with 301 redirects.
Search Domain Names at http://www.domainsbot.com
Avoid registering a domain close to a competitor’s and be cautious of violating a trademark.
Registering your own name is a great way to build your personal brand.
Be Creative
Avoid hyphenated domain names
Check availability on social media sites; use http://knowem.com
Don’t let your domain name expire
Choose a web hosting service. PC magazine has a convenient side-by-side comparison of its “Best Web
Hosting Services for 2015” at http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2424725,00.asp.
If you decide to design on your own, here is a list of free or low-cost web design sites:
Google Web Starter Kit https://developers.google.com/web/tools/starter-kit/
Google Web Fundamentals
https://developers.google.com/web/fundamentals/
Voog http://www.voog.com/en/
Webs http://www.webs.com/
bubble https://bubble.is/
strikingly https://www.strikingly.com/
Squarespace http://www.squarespace.com/
WiX http://www.wix.com/
Moonfruit http://www.moonfruit.com/
Weebly http://www.weebly.com/
WordPress https://wordpress.com/website/
yola https://www.yola.com/
Social Media Resources
Social Media for Small Business Guide
http://www.ducttapemarketing.com/socialmediaforbusiness.pdf
Facebook for Business https://www.facebook.com/business/
Instagram for Business https://business.instagram.com/
Pinterest for Business https://business.pinterest.com/en/
Twitter for Business https://business.twitter.com/
Learn Twitter https://business.twitter.com/basics/learn-twitter/
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V. DIRECTORY OF COUNTY AND STATE AGENCIES
COUNTY OF HAWAI‘I
Aging, Office of
Email: hcoa@hawaiiantel.net
Web: http://www.hcoahawaii.org/
East Hawai`i
1055 Kino‘ole Street, Suite 101
Hilo, Hawai‘i 96720-3875
Phone (808) 961-8600
West Hawai`i
74-5044 Ane Keohokalole Highway, Building B
Kailua-Kona, Hawai‘i 96740
Phone (808) 323-4390
Civil Defense Agency
920 Ululani Street, Hilo, Hawai‘i 96720
Phone (808) 935-0031
Fax (808) 935-6460
Email civil_defense@hawaiicounty.gov
Web http://www.hawaiicounty.gov/civil-defense/
Corporation Counsel
Hilo Lagoon Centre, 101 Aupuni Street, Unit 325, Hilo, Hawai‘i 96720
Phone (808) 961-8251
Fax (808) 961-8622
Email corpcounsel@hawaiicounty.gov
Web http://www.hawaiicounty.gov/corporation-counsel/
County Council
East Hawai‘i Council District Offices (Districts 1-9)
25 Aupuni Street, Suite 1402, Hilo, Hawai‘i 96720
Phone (808) 961-8225
West Hawai‘i Council District Offices (Districts 1-9)
74-5044 Ane Keohokalole Highway, Building A, Kailua-Kona, Hawai‘i 96740
Phone (808) 323-4260
County Clerk, Office of
The County Clerk supports the County Council through its Council Services, Committee Services,
Administrative Services, Support Services and the Legislative Research Branch. The County Clerk also
manages the Elections Division. http://www.hawaiicounty.gov/elections-voter-info/
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Environmental Management, Department of
Email cohdem@hawaiicounty.gov
Web http://www.hawaiicounty.gov/environmental-management/ and http://www.hawaiizerowaste.org/
East Hawai`i
345 Kekūanāo`a Street, Suite 41
Hilo, Hawai`i 96720
Phone (808) 961-8083
West Hawai`i
74-5044 Ane Keohokalole Highway, Building D
Kailua-Kona, Hawai`i 96740
Phone (808) 323-4411
Finance, Department of
25 Aupuni Street, Suite 2103, Hilo, HI 96720
Phone (808) 961-8234, Fax (808) 961-8569
Web http://www.hawaiicounty.gov/finance/
Purchasing Division
Phone (808) 961-8321, Fax (808) 8248
Email purchasing@hawaiicounty.gov
Web http://www.hawaiicounty.gov/finance-purchasing/
Real Property Tax Division
Web http://www.hawaiicounty.gov/finance-real-property-tax/ and http://www.hawaiipropertytax.com/
East Hawai`i
Aupuni Center
101 Pauahi Street, Suite 4
Hilo, Hawai`i 96720
Phone (808) 961-8201
West Hawai`i
74-5044 Ane Keohokalole Highway
Kailua-Kona, Hawai`i 96740
Phone (808) 323-4880
Vehicle Registration and Licensing Division
Email vehiclerl@hawaiicounty.gov
Web http://www.hawaiicounty.gov/finance-vrl/
East Hawai`i
Aupuni Center
101 Pauahi Street, Suite 5
Hilo, Hawai`i 96720
Phone (808) 961-8351
West Hawai`i
74-5044 Ane Keohokalole Highway
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Kailua-Kona, Hawai`i 96740
Phone (808) 323-4818
Fire Department
Email fire@hawaiicounty.gov
Web http://www.hawaiicounty.gov/fire/
East Hawai`i
25 Aupuni Street, Suite 2501
Hilo, Hawai`i 96720
Phone (808) 932-2900
West Hawai`i
74-5044 Ane Keohokalole Highway, Building E
Kailua-Kona, Hawai`i 96740
Phone (808) 323-4760
Housing (Office of Housing and Community Development)
Email ohcd@hawaiicounty.gov
Web http://www.hawaiicounty.gov/office-of-housing/
East Hawai`i
50 Wailuku Drive
Hilo, Hawai`i 96720-2456
Phone (808) 961-8379
West Hawai`i
74-5044 Ane Keohokalole Highway, Building B 2nd Floor
Kailua-Kona, Hawai`i 96740
Phone (808) 323-4300
Human Resources Department
Email hrdir@hawaiicounty.gov
Web http://www.hawaiicounty.gov/human-resources/
East Hawai`i
Aupuni Center
101 Pauahi Street, Suite 2
Hilo, Hawai`i 96720
Phone (808) 961-8361
West Hawai`i
74-5044 Ane Keohokalole Highway, Building B
Kailua-Kona, Hawai`i 96740
Phone (808) 323-4424
Information Technology Department
Email webadministrator@hawaiicounty.gov
Web http://www.hawaiicounty.gov/information-technology/
Phone (808) 932-2960
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East Hawai`i
345 Kekūanāo`a Street, Suite 45
Hilo, Hawai`i 96720
West Hawai`i
74-5044 Ane Keohokalole Highway, Building F
Kailua-Kona, Hawai`i 96740
Liquor Control, Office of
Email cohdlc@hawaiicounty.gov
Web http://www.hawaiicounty.gov/liquor-control/
East Hawai`i
Hilo Lagoon Center
101 Aupuni Street, Suite 230
Hilo, Hawai`i 96720
Phone (808) 961-8218
West Hawai`i
745044 Ane Keohokalole Highway, Building B
Kailua-Kona, Hawai`i 96740
Phone (808) 323-4370
Legislative Auditor, Office of
Email publiclao@hawaiicounty.gov
Web http://www.hawaiicounty.gov/legislative-auditor/
1266 Kamehameha Avenue, Suite A-8, Hilo, Hawai`i 96720
Phone (808) 961-8386
Mass Transit Agency
Email heleonbus@hawaiicounty.gov
Web http://www.hawaiicounty.gov/mass-transit/
and http://heleonbus.org/
1266 Kamehameha Avenue, Suite A-2, Hilo, HI 96720
Phone (808) 961-8343
Parks and Recreation, Department of
Email parks_recreation@hawaiicounty.gov
Web http://www.hawaiicounty.gov/parks-and-recreation/
East Hawai`i
Aupuni Center
101 Pauahi Street, Suite 6
Hilo, Hawai`i 96720
Phone (808) 961-8311
West Hawai‘i
74-5044 Ane Keohokalole Highway, Building B
Kailua-Kona, Hawai‘i 96740
Phone (808) 323-4322
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Planning Department
Email planning@hawaiicounty.gov
Web http://www.hawaiicounty.gov/planning/ and
http://www.cohplanningdept.com/
East Hawai‘i
Aupuni Center
101 Pauahi Street, Suite 3, Hilo, Hawai‘i 96720
Phone (808) 961-8288
West Hawai‘i
74-5044 Ane Keohokalole Highway, Building E 2nd Floor
Kailua-Kona, Hawai‘i 96740
Phone (808) 323-4770
Police Department, Hawai‘i
Email copsysop@hawaiicounty.gov
Web http://www.hawaiicounty.gov/police/ and http://www.hawaiipolice.com/
349 Kapiolani Street, Hilo, Hawai‘i 96720
Non-emergency Phone (808) 935-3311
Prosecuting Attorney, Office of the
Email hilopros@hawaiicounty.gov
Web http://www.hawaiicounty.gov/prosecuting-attorney/
East Hawai‘i
Aupuni Center, 655 Kilauea Avenue, Hilo, Hawai‘i 96720
Phone (808) 961-0466
West Hawai‘i
Kealakekua Business Plaza
81-980 Haleki‘i Street, Suite 150, Kealakekua, Hawai‘i 96750
Phone (808) 322-2552
North Hawai‘i
Holomua Center
64-1067 Mamalahoa Highway, Kamuela, Hawai‘i 96743
(808) 887-3017
Public Works, Department of
Email public_works@hawaiicounty.gov
Web http://www.hawaiicounty.gov/public-works/
Aupuni Center, 101 Pauahi Street, Suite 7, Hilo, Hawai‘i 96720
Phone (808) 961-8321
Building Division
Email cohbuild@hawaiicounty.gov
Web http://www.hawaiicounty.gov/public-works-building
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East Hawai‘i
Aupuni Center, 101 Pauahi Street, Suite 7, Hilo, Hawai‘i 96720
Phone (808) 961-8334
West Hawai‘i
74-5044 Ane Keohokalole Highway, Building E 1st Floor
Kailua-Kona, Hawai‘i 96740
Phone (808) 323-4720
Engineering Division
Email dpweng@hawaiicounty.gov
Web http://www.hawaiicounty.gov/public-works-engineering
East Hawai‘i
Aupuni Center, 101 Pauahi Street, Suite 7, Hilo, Hawai‘i 96720
Phone (808) 961-8327
West Hawai‘i
74-5044 Ane Keohokalole Highway, Building D 1st Floor
Kailua-Kona, Hawai‘i 96740
Phone (808) 323-4850
Research and Development, Department of
Email chresdev@hawaiicounty.gov
Web http://www.hawaiicounty.gov/research-and-development/
Agriculture Program http://hawaiicountyag.com/
Big Island Film Office http://www.filmbigisland.com/
Immigration Office http://www.hawaiicounty.gov/immigration/
Hawai‘i County Business Resource Center
Email HCBRC@hawaiicounty.gov
East Hawai‘i
25 Aupuni Street, Suite 1301
Hilo, Hawai‘i 96720
Phone (808) 961-8366
West Hawai‘i
74-5044 Ane Keohokalole Highway, Building C
Kailua-Kona, Hawai‘i 96740
Phone (808) 323-4700
Water Supply, Department of
Email dws@hawaiidws.org
Web http://www.hawaiicounty.gov/water-supply/ and http://www.hawaiidws.org/
345 Kekūanāo‘a Street, Suite 20
Hilo, Hawai‘i 96720
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STATE OF HAWAI‘I
Accounting and General Services (DAGS), Department of
Kalanimoku Building
1151 Punchbowl Street, Honolulu, HI 96813
Phone (808) 586-0400, Fax: (808) 586-0775
Email: dags@hawaii.gov
Web: http://ags.hawaii.gov
Hawai‘i District Office: http://ags.hawaii.gov/hawaii-district-office/
Public Works Division http://pwd.hawaii.gov/
State Procurement Office http://spo.hawaii.gov/
Agriculture (HDOA), Department of
Office of the Chairperson
1428 South King Street, Honolulu, HI 96814
Phone: (808) 973-9560, Fax: (808) 973-9613
Email: hdoa.info@hawaii.gov
Web: http://hdoa.hawaii.gov
Agricultural Development Division http://hdoa.hawaii.gov/add/
Agricultural Loan Division http://hdoa.hawaii.gov/agl/
Agricultural Resource Management Division http://hdoa.hawaii.gov/arm/
Plant Industry Division http://hdoa.hawaii.gov/pi/
Quality Assurance Division http://hdoa.hawaii.gov/qad/
Attorney General (AG), Department of
425 Queen Street, Honolulu, HI 96813
Phone: (808) 586-1500, Fax: (808) 586-1239
Email: hawaiiag@hawaii.gov
Web: http://ag.hawaii.gov
Budget and Finance (B&F), Department of
No. 1 Capitol District Building, 250 South Hotel Street, Honolulu, HI 96813
Phone: (808) 586-1518, Fax: (808) 586-1976
Email: hi.budgetandfinance@hawaii.gov
Web: http://budget.hawaii.gov
Business, Economic Development & Tourism (DBEDT), Department of
No. 1 Capitol District, 250 South Hotel Street, Honolulu, HI 96813
Phone: (808) 586-2355, Fax: (808) 586-2377
Email: director@dbedt.hawaii.gov
Web: http://dbedt.hawaii.gov
Business Development and Support Division http://invest.hawaii.gov/
Census Division http://census.hawaii.gov/
Creative Industries Division http://cid.hawaii.gov/
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Research and Economic Analysis Division http://dbedt.hawaii.gov/economic/
Hawai‘i State Energy Office http://energy.hawaii.gov/
Foreign-Trade Zone http://ftz9.org/
Hawai‘i Film Office http://filmoffice.hawaii.gov/
Hawai‘i Housing Finance & Development Corp. http://dbedt.hawaii.gov/hhfdc/
Hawai‘i Strategic Development Corp. http://hsdc.hawaii.gov/
Hawai‘i Tourism Authority http://www.hawaiitourismauthority.org/
High Technology Development Corp. http://www.htdc.org/
Land Use Commission http://luc.hawaii.gov/
Natural Energy Laboratory of Hawai‘i Authority http://nelha.hawaii.gov/
Office of Planning http://planning.hawaii.gov/
Public Utilities Commission http://puc.hawaii.gov/
Commerce & Consumer Affairs (DCCA), Department of
King Kalakaua Building, 335 Merchant Street, Honolulu, HI 96813
Phone: (808) 587-3222
Email: dcca@dcca.hawaii.gov
Web: http://cca.hawaii.gov
Broadband http://cca.hawaii.gov/broadband/
Business Action Center Division http://cca.hawaii.gov/bac/
Business Registration Division http://cca.hawaii.gov/breg/
Insurance Division http://cca.hawaii.gov/ins/
Professional and Vocational Licensing Division http://cca.hawaii.gov/pvl/
Real Estate Branch http://cca.hawaii.gov/reb/
Defense (DOD), Department of
Office of the Adjutant General
3949 Diamond Head Road, Honolulu, HI 96813-4498
Phone: (808) 733-4246, Fax: (808) 733-4236
Email: webmaster@dod.state.hi.us
Web: http://dod.hawaii.gov
State Civil Defense http://www.scd.hawaii.gov/
East-West Center
The East-West Center
1601 East-West Road, Honolulu, HI 96848
Phone: (808) 944-7111, Fax: (808) 944-7376
Web: http://www.eastwestcenter.org
Education (DOE), Department of
1390 Miller Street, Honolulu, HI 96813
Phone: (808) 586-3230, Fax: (808) 586-3234
Email: doe.info@notes.k12.hi.us
Web: http://hawaiipublicschools.org
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Governor, Office of the
Executive Chambers, State Capitol, Honolulu, HI 96813
Phone: (808) 586-0034, Fax: (808) 586-0006
Web: http://governor.hawaii.gov
Hawaiian Affairs (OHA), Office of
Honolulu Office
711 Kap‘iolani Blvd., Suite 500, Honolulu, HI 96813
Phone: (808) 594-1835, Fax: (808) 594-1865
Email: info@oha.org
Web: http://www.oha.org
Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL), Department of
Hale Kalaniana‘ole, 91-5420 Kapolei Parkway, Kapolei, HI 96707
Phone: (808) 620-9590
Fax: (808) 620-9599
Web: http://dhhl.hawaii.gov
Health, (DOH), Department of
Kinau Hale, 1250 Punchbowl Street, Honolulu, HI 96813
Phone: (808) 586-4400, Fax: (808) 586-4368
Web: http://health.hawaii.gov
Clean Air Branch http://health.hawaii.gov/cab/
Clean Water Branch http://health.hawaii.gov/cwb/
Food and Drug Branch http://health.hawaii.gov/food-drug/
Indoor and Radiological Health Branch http://health.hawaii.gov/irhb/
Office of Environmental Quality Control http://health.hawaii.gov/oeqc/
Office of Health Care Assurance http://health.hawaii.gov/ohca/
Safe Drinking Water Branch http://health.hawaii.gov/sdwb/
Solid and Hazardous Waste Branch http://health.hawaii.gov/shwb/
Sanitation Branch http://health.hawaii.gov/san/
State Health Planning and Development Agency http://health.hawaii.gov/shpda/
Human Services (DHS), Department of
1390 Miller Street, Room 209, Honolulu, HI 96813
Phone: (808) 586-4997, Fax: (808) 586-4890
Email: dhs@dhs.hawaii.gov
Web: http://humanservices.hawaii.gov
Information Management & Technology (OIMT), Office of
Keoni Ana Building, 1177 Alakea Street, room 305, Honolulu, HI 96813
Phone: (808) 586-1930 ext. 531
Email: oimt@hawaii.gov
Web: http://oimt.hawaii.gov
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Judiciary
Administrative Offices of the Courts
Ali‘iolani Hale, 417 South King Street, Honolulu, HI 96813-2902
Web: http://www.courts.state.hi.us
Labor & Industrial Relations (DLIR), Department of
830 Punchbowl Street St. #321, Honolulu, HI 96813
Phone: (808) 586-8844, Fax: (808) 586-9099
Email: dlir.director@hawaii.gov
Web: http://labor.hawaii.gov
Disability Compensation Division http://labor.hawaii.gov/dcd/
Employment Security Appeals http://labor.hawaii.gov/esaro/
Hawaii Civil Rights Commission http://labor.hawaii.gov/hcrc/
Labor and Industrial Relations Appeals Board http://labor.hawaii.gov/lirab/
Labor Relations Board http://labor.hawaii.gov/hlrb/
Occupational Safety and Health http://labor.hawaii.gov/hiosh/
Research and Statistics http://labor.hawaii.gov/rs/
State Fire Council http://labor.hawaii.gov/sfc/
Unemployment Insurance http://labor.hawaii.gov/ui/
Wage Standards Division http://labor.hawaii.gov/wsd/
Workforce Development Council http://labor.hawaii.gov/wdc/
Workforce Development Division http://labor.hawaii.gov/wdd/
Land & Natural Resources (DLNR), Department of
Kalanimoku Building, 1151 Punchbowl Street, Honolulu, HI 96813
Phone: (808) 587-0400, Fax: (808) 587-0390
Email: dlnr@hawaii.gov
Web: http://dlnr.hawaii.gov/
Division of Aquatic Resources http://dlnr.hawaii.gov/dar/
Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation http://dlnr.hawaii.gov/dobor/
Bureau of Conveyances http://dlnr.hawaii.gov/boc/
Conservation and Resources Enforcement http://dlnr.hawaii.gov/docare/
Engineering Division http://dlnreng.hawaii.gov/
Forestry and Wildlife http://dlnr.hawaii.gov/dofaw/
Historic Preservation Division http://dlnr.hawaii.gov/shpd/
Hunter Education Program http://dlnr.hawaii.gov/huntered/
Land Division http://dlnr.hawaii.gov/ld/
Office of Conservation and Coastal Lands http://dlnr.hawaii.gov/occl/
Soil and Water Conservation District Program http://dlnr.hawaii.gov/swcd/
State Parks http://dlnr.hawaii.gov/dsp/
Legislature, Hawai‘i State
State Capitol, 415 S. Beretania Street, Honolulu, HI 96813-2407
Phone: (808) 587-0478 (Public Access Room)
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Email: par@Capitol.hawaii.gov
Web: http://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/
Hawai‘i Legislative Reference Bureau http://lrbhawaii.org/
Hawai`i State Foundation on Culture and the Arts http://sfca.hawaii.gov/
Lieutenant Governor, Office of the
State Capitol, Honolulu, HI 96813
Phone: (808) 586-0255, Fax: (808) 586-0231
Web: http://ltgov.hawaii.gov
Public Safety (DPS), Department of
919 Ala Moana Boulevard, Room 400, Honolulu, HI 96814
Phone: (808) 587-1288, Fax: (808) 587-1282
Email: psd.office.of.the.director@hawaii.gov
Web: http://dps.hawaii.gov
Taxation, Department of
Princess Ruth Keelikolani Building, 830 Punchbowl Street, Honolulu, HI 96813
Phone: (808) 587-4242, Fax: (808) 587-1488
Email: tax.directors.office@hawaii.gov
Web: http://tax.hawaii.gov
Teacher Standards Board (HTSB), Hawai‘i
650 Iwilei Road, #201, Honolulu, HI 96817
Phone: (808) 586-2600
Email: licensingsection@htsb.org
Web: http://www.htsb.org/
Transportation (DOT), Department of
Aliiaimoku Building, 869 Punchbowl Street, Honolulu, HI 96813
Phone: (808) 587-2150, Fax: (808) 587-3652
Email: dotpao@hawaii.gov
Web: http://hidot.hawaii.gov
Airport Division http://hidot.hawaii.gov/airports/
Harbors Division http://hidot.hawaii.gov/harbors/
Highways Division http://hidot.hawaii.gov/highways/
University of Hawai‘i at Hilo
200 W. Kawili Street, Hilo, HI 96720
Phone (808) 932-7446
http://hilo.hawaii.edu/
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NOTES
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NOTES
The County of Hawai‘i is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer