HVAC Contractor Permit Requirements in Kailua, 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. EPA Section 608 Certification (for refrigerants)

   Technicians who purchase, recover, or handle refrigerants must hold EPA Section 608 certification. Required by federal law regardless of state.

   Official government source

   $20–$100 (exam)·1–2 days

   $20–$100 (exam)

   1–2 days

1. Hawaii Contractors License Board — HVAC Contractor License (C-52)

   HVAC contractors in Hawaii must hold a C-52 Air Conditioning, Ventilating, and Heating Contractor License from the Hawaii Contractors License Board. EPA Section 608 certification required for refrigerants.

   Official government source

   $250–$400 (initial)·4–8 weeks

   $250–$400 (initial)

   4–8 weeks

2. City and County of Honolulu — Permits and Licenses — Business License

   Kailua is within the City and County of Honolulu jurisdiction. Businesses must comply with Honolulu city requirements and the state GET license. This license must be renewed annually and displayed at your place of business.

   Official government source

   $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

3. Honolulu County / Kailua Mechanical Permit (per project)

   A mechanical permit must be obtained from the local building department for each HVAC installation or major repair. Inspections are required upon completion.

   Official government source

   $50–$300 per project·1–5 business days

   $50–$300 per project

   1–5 business days

Official Sources

• Hawaii Contractors License Board — HVAC Contractor License (C-52)
• City and County of Honolulu — Permits and Licenses

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