Cesspool Conversion Permit Process for Hawaiʻi Island
A Hawaiʻi licensed civil engineer evaluates the property, prepares the wastewater system design, and submits it for review. After approval, a licensed contractor installs the system. The engineer then submits the completion records required for final review.
1. Confirm the property information
Start with the property address, TMK, ownership information, known wastewater records, and any plans or approvals already available. Confirm whether the property uses a cesspool, another onsite system, or an approved sewer connection.
2. Connect with a Hawaiʻi licensed civil engineer
A licensed civil engineer must prepare and submit the individual wastewater system design. The engineer evaluates the site, identifies the current requirements, and explains what additional records or field information are needed.
3. Complete the site evaluation and design
The engineer uses the property information and site findings to prepare a design that meets applicable Department of Health rules. The final system cannot be selected from a district name or a general technology list alone.
4. Submit the design for review
The engineer submits the required design and application material to the Hawaiʻi Department of Health. If the agency requests clarification or revisions, the engineer addresses the technical comments and resubmits the applicable material.
Review durations vary. A published average or another property's experience is not a deadline or estimate for the parcel.
5. Receive the required construction approval
Construction should begin only after the required approval has been issued. Keep the approval with the project records and provide the approved design to the professionals performing the work.
6. Use a licensed contractor
The contractor installs the system according to the approved design. The engineer and contractor should explain their respective responsibilities, any county permits that apply, required inspections, site access, and the records needed during construction.
7. Submit completion records
After construction, the engineer and contractor prepare the applicable completion and certification records. The engineer submits the required material for agency review. Any discrepancy must be resolved before approval to use can be issued.
8. Keep the final property records
Keep the approval to use and the operating and maintenance information for the system with the property records. Follow the maintenance requirements for the installed system.
Documents to discuss with the engineer
- Property address, TMK, ownership information, and available property map
- Existing wastewater records, cesspool information, or prior approvals
- Current building use and proposed changes that may affect wastewater flow
- The engineer's current design and application requirements
- The issued approval required before construction
- Applicable contractor, county, inspection, and construction records
- Completion material required for agency review
- Final approval and maintenance information for the system
Need help identifying the next professional step?
Send the property address or TMK and describe what has already been designed, submitted, or approved. We will help route the inquiry to the right professional.
Official sources
Start with the details you have
Send us the property details you have. We will connect you with a licensed professional who can evaluate the site.