Key facts
- Honolulu implemented AI software called CivCheck.
- CivCheck aims to streamline the city's permitting process.
- In Q1 2026, average permit decision times for smaller projects decreased.
- The average permit decision time for smaller projects fell from 73 days to 32.5 days.
- Honolulu plans to expand CivCheck to larger commercial developments.
- Honolulu plans to expand CivCheck to affordable housing projects.
The City of Honolulu has introduced an AI-powered software solution named CivCheck to expedite its permitting procedures. Initial results from the first quarter of 2026 demonstrate a substantial decrease in the average time required for permit decisions. For smaller projects, this timeframe has been reduced from 73 days to 32.5 days. The city intends to broaden the application of CivCheck to encompass larger commercial developments and affordable housing projects in the future, aiming for a more efficient and streamlined process across the board.