Hawaii Public Records are official documents and materials created or maintained by government agencies across the state. These records include information related to court cases, land ownership, criminal proceedings, and various civil matters. Public access to such documents is generally permitted under transparency laws, allowing individuals to review government actions and legal filings.
These records may originate from state departments, county offices, or judicial systems and are often kept for administrative, historical, or legal purposes. While access guidelines can vary depending on the document type and agency, most records are classified based on confidentiality rules or relevance to public interest.
Hawaii Public Records Law
Understanding public records law in Hawaii begins with the Uniform Information Practices Act (UIPA), a cornerstone of government transparency in the state. Codified under Hawaii Revised Statutes Chapter 92F, the UIPA outlines how individuals can request access to records maintained by public agencies and under what circumstances those records may be withheld. For more information on Hawaii court detail, including how the judiciary handles public access, this law reinforces the public’s right to information while ensuring privacy and security.
The UIPA, enacted in 1988, establishes the framework for how public records are handled across Hawaii’s state and local government agencies. It aims to strike a balance between public access to government documents and the protection of individual privacy. Any record created, maintained, or received by a government agency in the course of official business may be considered a public record unless specifically exempted by law.
Rights of Requesters Under HRS Chapter 92F
Hawaii residents—and in most cases, non-residents—have the right to:
- Inspect and copy public records during regular office hours.
- Receive records in the format requested (if available and reasonable).
- Be informed of any fees before incurring costs.
- Appeal denials through the Office of Information Practices (OIP).
- Request a waiver or reduction of fees in the public interest, at the agency’s discretion.
These rights are meant to ensure accountability in government operations and to empower citizens to stay informed about public affairs.
Agencies Required to Comply
The UIPA applies to a wide range of government bodies, including:
- State departments and agencies
- County governments and their departments
- Boards and commissions
- Public schools, universities, and libraries
- State judiciary administrative offices
However, Hawaii’s judicial records related to court proceedings are governed separately by court rules rather than the UIPA. Requests for court records should be directed to the Judiciary’s Office or accessed via systems like eCourt Kokua or Ho‘ohiki, depending on the case type.
How to Request Public Records in Hawaii
Accessing public records in Hawaii is a straightforward process supported by the state’s Uniform Information Practices Act (UIPA), which ensures transparency while respecting individual privacy. Whether you’re seeking copies of court documents, vital records, or property filings, understanding the proper procedures helps ensure timely access to the information you need—for personal use.
Step-by-Step Request Process
- Identify the Record Type and Agency
First, determine the type of public record you need (e.g., court, criminal, property, vital, inmate) and which Hawaii state agency maintains that record. Each department has its own process, so confirming the correct custodian is key. - Prepare a Written Request
Although not always required, submitting a written request is highly recommended. Include:- Your full name and contact information
- A clear description of the record(s) requested
- The date range (if applicable)
- Preferred format (electronic or paper copy)
- Submit the Request to the Proper Office
Requests may be submitted by:- Email (if the agency accepts electronic submissions)
- Mail or In-person at the department’s physical address
- Online Portals, where available (e.g., Hawaii State Judiciary for court documents)
- Wait for a Response
Under UIPA, agencies typically respond within 10 business days, either providing the records, requesting clarification, or issuing a notice of denial with reasons. If additional time is needed, agencies must notify the requester. - Pay Any Applicable Fees
Some records involve copying or administrative fees. You’ll receive a notice if payment is required before processing continues. - Receive the Records
Once approved and processed, records may be delivered via mail, email, or for pick-up depending on your selection and the agency’s policies.
Required Forms and Formats
Depending on the agency, your request may need to include:
- A standard Request to Access a Government Record form (as suggested by the Office of Information Practices)
- Proof of identity or eligibility (especially for vital records)
- Notarization in some instances, such as certified copies of certain documents
Always verify agency-specific requirements on their official website or contact them directly.
Estimated Response Times and Follow-Up
- Standard Timeline: 10 business days for initial acknowledgment
- Extended Timeline: If records are complex, an agency may request up to 20 business days
- Follow-Up: You can follow up by email or phone if you don’t receive confirmation within the expected window. Be polite and reference your original request date and subject.
If your request is denied, Hawaii law provides an option to appeal through the Office of Information Practices (OIP) by submitting a formal complaint.
Fees for Accessing Public Records in Hawaii
Accessing public records in Hawaii may involve various fees depending on the agency, type of record requested, and method of retrieval. These fees are generally intended to cover administrative tasks such as locating, duplicating, and processing documents. Below is a clear breakdown of what users can expect when requesting public records in Hawaii—based strictly on personal use and compliant with all laws and guidelines.
Standard Copying, Processing, and Search Fees
Under the Hawaii Uniform Information Practices Act (UIPA), government agencies may charge reasonable fees for locating and reproducing public records. These standard fees typically include:
- Search fees: $2.50 per 15-minute increment after the first hour of search time (first hour is free).
- Review and redaction fees: $2.50 per 15-minute increment after the first hour of review.
- Copying fees:
- $0.50 per page for standard-sized paper copies
- Additional fees may apply for oversized documents, color printing, or microfiche.
Agencies must provide an itemized estimate upon request. These fees apply when users are seeking access to information for non-commercial, personal purposes, in alignment with Hawaii state law.
Agencies with Unique Fee Structures
While general state agencies follow UIPA fee standards, some specific departments in Hawaii have unique fee structures based on the type of record:
Bureau of Conveyances (Land and Property Records)
- Recording Fee: $41 for standard documents; $106 for nonstandard documents.
- Document Copies: $1.00 per page for uncertified copies; $1.00 per page plus $1.00 certification fee for certified copies.
- Online Document Access: Fees vary based on account type and volume.
Department of Health (Vital Records)
- Birth, Death, Marriage, and Divorce Certificates:
- $10.00 for the first certified copy
- $4.00 for each additional copy ordered at the same time
- A processing fee may apply for online orders
- For requests of more than five copies, an additional $2.50 per copy may be charged.
Fee Waivers or Reductions
Hawaii law allows for discretionary fee waivers or reductions in some cases, particularly when:
- The information serves the public interest
- The requester demonstrates financial hardship
- The agency deems the request burdensome and adjusts accordingly
However, waivers are not guaranteed, and requesters should submit a written explanation if they seek a waiver. All such waivers are evaluated on a case-by-case basis by the individual agency, in line with UIPA §92F-42.
Payment Methods and Refund Policies
Accepted payment methods vary by agency but typically include:
- Credit/debit cards (for online requests)
- Checks or money orders (for mail-in applications)
- Cash payments (in-person only, at some agencies)
Before submitting a payment, users are encouraged to confirm payment instructions directly with the agency. Most government agencies in Hawaii do not offer refunds once a record has been processed and released—even if the request is later withdrawn or if the document is found to be non-existent or restricted.
Limitations and Exemptions in Hawaii Public Records Access
While Hawaii provides broad public access to many government records under the Uniform Information Practices Act (UIPA), there are important limitations and exemptions designed to protect privacy, security, and legal rights. Understanding these restrictions helps ensure that public records are used responsibly and lawfully.
What Information Is Exempt From Public Access?
Certain categories of information are exempt or restricted from disclosure under Hawaii law. These include, but are not limited to:
- Medical and health records: Protected by state privacy laws and federal regulations such as HIPAA, medical information is generally exempt from public release to safeguard patient confidentiality.
- Juvenile records: Court files and records involving minors are typically sealed or confidential to protect their privacy and rehabilitation prospects.
- Sealed or expunged criminal records: Records that have been legally sealed or expunged by court order are not publicly accessible, ensuring individuals can move forward without public stigma.
- Personal identifiers: Sensitive personal data such as social security numbers, driver’s license numbers, and certain financial information are withheld to prevent identity theft or fraud.
- Law enforcement investigatory files: Active investigations or law enforcement records are often exempt to preserve the integrity of investigations and protect public safety.
These exemptions align with the Uniform Information Practices Act (UIPA) — Hawaii Revised Statutes Chapter 92F, which balances transparency with privacy concerns.
When May Agencies Redact or Deny Access?
Agencies responsible for public records have the authority to redact (remove or obscure) specific sensitive information within documents before release. They may also deny access to entire records or portions thereof if disclosure would:
- Violate statutory privacy protections
- Compromise ongoing law enforcement activities
- Infringe on constitutional rights or legal privileges
- Harm an individual’s personal privacy or safety
If your request is denied or partially fulfilled due to redactions, the agency must generally provide a reason citing the specific legal basis for the exemption.
How to Appeal a Denied Public Records Request
If you believe your public records request was improperly denied or excessively redacted, Hawaii law provides you with rights to appeal. The typical appeal process includes:
- Request a written explanation: Ask the agency to provide the legal justification for withholding the records.
- File an administrative appeal: You can submit a formal appeal to the agency’s head or designated appeals officer within a specified timeframe (usually 30 days).
- Seek judicial review: If the administrative appeal is unsuccessful, you may file a petition in circuit court challenging the denial under the UIPA.
During this process, courts will weigh the public interest in disclosure against privacy and security concerns, ensuring the law is fairly applied.
Public Records for Personal vs. Legal Use
Public records in Hawaii serve an important role in supporting individual rights, transparency, and accountability. However, it is essential to understand the legal boundaries when accessing or using these records. This section helps users differentiate between lawful personal use and prohibited activities, ensuring compliance with both Hawaii law and federal regulations, including the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA).
Understanding Lawful, Non-Commercial Use
Hawaii public records—such as court documents, property deeds, and arrest records—can be accessed by the public for personal use. Personal use means reviewing public records for your own informational needs, such as checking court dates, verifying property ownership, or researching family history. This type of use is fully lawful under Hawaii’s Uniform Information Practices Act (UIPA), which ensures transparency while protecting sensitive information.
However, it is critical to avoid using these records for commercial, professional, or business purposes. For example, individuals are not allowed to use public records to screen employees, evaluate tenants, conduct credit checks, or investigate people on behalf of a business or organization. Even if a record is publicly available, how it is used must comply with applicable laws and terms of use.
Restrictions Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA)
The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) is a federal law that restricts how certain types of information—especially related to personal history—can be used. It was designed to protect consumer privacy and promote fairness and accuracy when making critical decisions, such as hiring or lending.
It is important to note that services providing access to public records (such as those affiliated with PeopleConnect) are not Consumer Reporting Agencies (CRAs). This means:
🔴 You cannot use public records from these services for any of the following purposes:
- Employment screening (e.g., hiring, promotions, or background checks for jobs)
- Tenant screening (e.g., rental or housing application decisions)
- Credit decisions (e.g., approving loans, credit cards, or financing)
- Insurance underwriting (e.g., determining eligibility for policies or coverage)
- Governmental benefits eligibility (e.g., licenses, grants)
- Business transactions involving an individual
- Child or spousal support eligibility decisions
Doing so would not only violate the FCRA but also the Terms of Use of the services providing the data. These services are strictly limited to personal informational purposes, and using them for any regulated purpose is prohibited by law.
Contact Information for Public Records Inquiries
To access public records in Hawaii, contact the appropriate government agency responsible for the type of record you need. Below are key departments with their official contact details. All information is intended for lawful, personal use only and must not be used for employment, tenant screening, credit, or any other purpose restricted under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA).
Hawaii State Judiciary
Provides access to court case records, including criminal, civil, family, and traffic matters.
- Website: https://www.courts.state.hi.us
- Phone: (808) 539-4919
- Address: 417 South King Street, Honolulu, HI 96813
Department of Health – Vital Records
Issues birth, death, marriage, and divorce certificates to eligible individuals.
- Website: https://health.hawaii.gov/vitalrecords
- Phone: (808) 586-4539
- Address: 1250 Punchbowl Street, Honolulu, HI 96813
Bureau of Conveyances
Handles property and land records such as deeds and title documents.
- Website: https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/boc
- Phone: (808) 587-0147
- Address: 1151 Punchbowl Street, Room 123, Honolulu, HI 96813
Criminal Justice Data Center (CJDC)
Provides access to Hawaii conviction history for personal reference only.
- Website: https://ecrim.ehawaii.gov
- Phone: (808) 587-3100
- Address: 465 South King Street, Room 102, Honolulu, HI 96813
Hawaii State Archives & Public Libraries
Stores historical records, legislative materials, and archived public information.
Hawaii State Archives
- Website: https://ags.hawaii.gov/archives
- Phone: (808) 586-0329
- Address: 364 South King Street, Honolulu, HI 96813
Hawaii State Public Library System
- Website: https://www.librarieshawaii.org
- Phone: (808) 586-3500
- Main Address: 478 South King Street, Honolulu, HI 96813
FAQ’s
If you’re looking to access Hawaii Public Records quickly or have any questions about the process, you’re in the right place! Here’s everything you need to know about searching for criminal case files, court dockets, and related public records in Hawaii.
Are Hawaii public records free?
Some Hawaii public records are available for free, especially when accessed online through official state or county websites. However, many records may come with administrative fees for copying, processing, or certification. The cost often depends on the agency handling the request and the type or volume of records. It’s important to check the specific department’s fee schedule before submitting a request to understand any potential charges.
Can I request records anonymously?
Yes, in Hawaii, you can generally request public records without providing personal identification. The Uniform Information Practices Act (UIPA) allows individuals to make anonymous requests, especially when the records are not confidential or restricted. However, if you’re requesting delivery by mail or need clarification from the agency, providing some contact details may help ensure a smooth and timely response.
How long does it take to get records?
The response time for Hawaii public records requests can vary based on the agency and the complexity of your request. Most agencies are required to respond within 10 business days, though complex cases may take longer. If additional time is needed, the agency will usually send a notice explaining the delay. Submitting a clear and specific request can help speed up the process.
What if a record is sealed or redacted?
If a Hawaii public record is sealed or partially redacted, it means certain information is legally protected from disclosure. This often applies to personal data, juvenile records, medical files, or ongoing investigations. You may still receive parts of the record that are public, but sensitive sections will be blacked out or withheld. Agencies follow strict state laws when determining what content must remain confidential.