Fitness Studio Permit Requirements in Honolulu, HI

1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

   Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC or corporation. Free from the IRS.

   Official government source

   Free·Immediate (online application)

   Free

   Immediate (online application)

1. Hawaii Department of Taxation — General Excise Tax License

   Hawaii does not have a traditional sales tax but requires all businesses to pay a General Excise Tax (GET) on gross income from business activities. The GET rate is 4% (4.5% in Honolulu). All businesses must register for a GET license with the Hawaii Department of Taxation.

   Official government source

   $20 (one-time registration fee)·2–4 weeks (by mail) or immediate (in-person)

   $20 (one-time registration fee)

   2–4 weeks (by mail) or immediate (in-person)

2. Hawaii Health Club Registration (if applicable)

   Some states require fitness studios and health clubs to register with the state attorney general's consumer protection division, especially if selling multi-month memberships. Check Hawaii requirements.

   $100–$300·2–4 weeks

   $100–$300

   2–4 weeks

1. City and County of Honolulu Department of Budget and Fiscal Services — Business License

   Honolulu requires a City business registration and applicable permits from the Department of Planning and Permitting in addition to the state GET license. This license must be renewed annually and displayed at your place of business.

   $50–$500/year depending on business type and gross revenues·1–3 weeks

   $50–$500/year depending on business type and gross revenues

   1–3 weeks

2. Honolulu County / Honolulu Certificate of Occupancy — Assembly Use

   Fitness studios must obtain a Certificate of Occupancy with an assembly or fitness use classification from the local building department. Fire suppression, emergency exits, and occupancy limits will be inspected.

   Official government source

   $200–$800·2–6 weeks

   $200–$800

   2–6 weeks

Official Sources

• City and County of Honolulu Department of Budget and Fiscal Services
• Hawaii Department of Taxation — General Excise Tax License

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