State Public Records Guide
Public Records in Hawaii
Your comprehensive guide to accessing public records in Hawaii under the Hawaii Uniform Information Practices Act (UIPA) (est. 1989).
Overview of Public Records in Hawaii
Hawaii's Uniform Information Practices Act, enacted in 1989, takes a unique approach to public records by combining open records provisions with personal privacy protections in a single statute. The UIPA is administered by the Office of Information Practices (OIP), an independent state agency that provides guidance, issues opinions, and helps resolve disputes about records access. Hawaii's approach balances transparency with its strong cultural emphasis on privacy, creating a distinctive framework that differs from most mainland states.
Quick Reference: Requesting Records in Hawaii
Response Time
Agencies must acknowledge requests within 10 business days. They must provide a determination within 20 business days, which may be extended for an additional 20 business days in complex cases.
Fees and Costs
Agencies may charge fees reasonably related to the cost of search, review, and duplication. Fee schedules vary by agency but typically range from $0.25 to $0.50 per page for copies.
How to Submit a Request
Requests should be made in writing to the agency. The Office of Information Practices recommends including a specific description of the records, preferred format, and requester contact information.
Appeal Process
The Office of Information Practices (OIP) reviews complaints at no cost. OIP opinions are binding on agencies, meaning they carry the force of law without requiring court action. Requesters may also file suit in circuit court.
Types of Public Records Available in Hawaii
Property Records
Property records in Hawaii include deeds, mortgages, liens, plat maps, and property tax assessments. These records document real estate ownership, transfers, and encumbrances. They are typically maintained at the county level and are valuable for researching property history, verifying ownership, and conducting due diligence before purchasing real estate.
How property records work →Voter Registration
Voter registration records in Hawaii contain information about registered voters including names, addresses, party affiliation, and voting history. The availability of voter data varies based on Hawaii election law and may be subject to restrictions on permitted uses and commercial distribution.
Understanding voter records →Court Records
Hawaii court records encompass civil litigation, criminal cases, family law matters, probate proceedings, and small claims cases. These records are maintained by the state judiciary and are generally open to the public, with exceptions for sealed cases, juvenile proceedings, and certain family matters.
Guide to court records →Business Filings
Business filings in Hawaii include articles of incorporation, annual reports, trade name registrations, and UCC filings. These records are maintained by the Secretary of State and provide information about business entities operating in the state, including their registered agents, officers, and current standing.
Searching business records →Vital Records
Hawaii vital records include birth certificates, death certificates, marriage licenses, and divorce decrees. These documents are maintained by the state's vital records office and are essential for establishing identity, proving familial relationships, and handling legal matters such as estate settlements.
Vital records overview →Campaign Finance
Campaign finance records in Hawaii document political contributions, expenditures, and donor information for state and local elections. These records are maintained by the state's election commission or ethics board and are valuable for tracking political spending and identifying donor patterns.
Campaign finance explained →How to Access Hawaii Public Records
To request government records in Hawaii, submit a written request to the relevant state or county agency. Agencies must respond within ten business days with either the records or a notice of denial. If you disagree with a denial, you can request an opinion from the Office of Information Practices, which provides guidance at no cost. Hawaii's four counties maintain property records through their respective bureaus of conveyances and real property assessment divisions, and the Hawaii State Judiciary provides online access to court case information through its eCourt Kokua system.
Online Access
Hawaii Bureau of Conveyances provides online property record searches. The Judiciary Information Management System offers electronic court record access. The Department of Commerce maintains online business filings.
Key Exemptions and Restrictions in Hawaii
While the Hawaii Uniform Information Practices Act (UIPA) establishes a strong presumption that government records are open to public inspection, certain categories of information are exempt from disclosure. Understanding these exemptions is important when submitting records requests in Hawaii.
- Records that would constitute an unwarranted invasion of personal privacy
- Government attorney work product and legal advice
- Interagency memorandums protected by the deliberative process privilege
- Test questions and scoring keys
- Information compiled for law enforcement purposes
- Records protected by other specific state statutes
If you believe records have been improperly withheld, Hawaii provides avenues for appeal. Contact the relevant oversight body or consult our guide to filing public records requests for tips on handling denials.
Key Laws and Regulations
Hawaii Uniform Information Practices Act (UIPA)
Enacted: 1989
The Uniform Information Practices Act is codified in Hawaii Revised Statutes Chapter 92F. Unlike most states that have separate open records and privacy laws, UIPA integrates both into a single framework. The law establishes a balancing test that weighs the public interest in disclosure against the privacy interest of individuals whose information may be in the records. The Office of Information Practices issues binding opinions and publishes an annual report on UIPA compliance across state government.
Key Features of Hawaii's Records Law:
- Hawaii uniquely combines its open records and privacy laws into a single statute
- The Office of Information Practices provides free advisory opinions and dispute resolution
- Hawaii uses a balancing test weighing public interest against privacy for records decisions
Hawaii Public Records Facts
Hawaii has 4 counties that maintain local government records
The Office of Information Practices handles approximately 400-500 inquiries per year
Hawaii's Bureau of Conveyances maintains property records dating back to the Kingdom of Hawaii era
The state has approximately 850,000 registered voters
Search Hawaii Public Records
Use OpenDataUSA to find publicly available records across Hawaii. Enter a name below to search public records in HI.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hawaii Public Records
What is the Office of Information Practices?
How do I access Hawaii court records?
Are Hawaii property records available online?
How do I get Hawaii vital records?
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Additional Resources
Disclaimer: The information on this page is provided for educational purposes and reflects publicly available information about the Hawaii Uniform Information Practices Act (UIPA). Laws and procedures change over time. For the most current requirements, contact the relevant oversight agency in Hawaii or consult a legal professional. OpenDataUSA is not a consumer reporting agency as defined by the FCRA. Do not use information obtained from this site for employment, tenant screening, or credit decisions.