Hawaii Permit Quick Reference

Contact information for permits at popular Hawaii wedding locations. Always verify current requirements - regulations change frequently.

Important: Permit requirements and fees change regularly. This information is a starting point - always verify current requirements directly with the issuing agency before the wedding.

Hawaii State Parks

Division of State Parks (All Islands)

For weddings and commercial photography/videography in any Hawaii State Park.

Website
dlnr.hawaii.gov/dsp
Phone
(808) 587-0300
Lead Time
2-4 weeks minimum
Fee Range
$50-$200+
Locations include: Waimea Canyon (Kauai), Akaka Falls (Big Island), Iao Valley (Maui), Diamond Head (Oahu), and many more.

Oahu Permits

City & County of Honolulu - Beach Parks

For weddings at Oahu beach parks including Kailua, Lanikai, Waimanalo, etc.

Department
Parks & Recreation
Phone
(808) 768-3003
Lead Time
2+ weeks
Website
honolulu.gov/parks

Waimanalo Beach - Specific Permit

Popular wedding beach with specific regulations.

Notes
Permit required for any setup (chairs, arch, etc.)
Guest Limit
Varies by permit type

Kualoa Ranch (Private)

Private ranch - permits handled directly by venue.

Phone
(808) 237-7321
Website
kualoa.com

Maui Permits

Maui County Parks

For weddings at Maui County beach parks.

Department
Parks & Recreation
Phone
(808) 270-7230
Website
mauicounty.gov/parks
Lead Time
Apply 2+ weeks ahead

Makena Beach (Big Beach/Little Beach)

State beach with specific permit requirements.

Managed By
State Parks (see above)
Notes
Commercial photography requires permit

Kapalua Bay

Resort area with specific regulations.

Notes
Contact Kapalua Resort for commercial permits

Big Island Permits

Hawaii County Parks & Recreation

For weddings at Big Island county parks and beaches.

Phone (Hilo)
(808) 961-8311
Phone (Kona)
(808) 323-4322
Website
hawaiicounty.gov/parks

Hapuna Beach State Park

One of Hawaii's best beaches - state park permit required.

Managed By
State Parks Division
Phone
(808) 882-6060 (park)

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Federal park with special permit requirements.

Phone
(808) 985-6000
Website
nps.gov/havo
Lead Time
4+ weeks recommended
National Parks have strict commercial filming regulations. Wedding ceremonies may be prohibited in certain areas. Verify early.

Kauai Permits

Kauai County Parks & Recreation

For weddings at Kauai county parks and beaches.

Phone
(808) 241-4460
Website
kauai.gov/parks
Lead Time
2+ weeks

Hanalei Bay Area

Popular North Shore location.

Notes
County park permit required for commercial activity
Weather
North Shore can be wet - have backup

Tunnels Beach (Makua)

Stunning beach with permit requirements.

Access
Limited parking - plan ahead
Permit
Required for commercial photography

Permit Planning Checklist

  • Confirm if venue/location requires permits
  • Determine lead time needed for application
  • Submit application with all required documents
  • Pay permit fees
  • Receive and review permit conditions
  • Bring physical permit copy to wedding
  • Know permit holder name (usually planner or officiant)
  • Understand time restrictions and guest limits
  • Know cleanup/setup requirements
Who Handles Permits?

As a photographer/videographer, you typically are NOT responsible for obtaining wedding permits. However, you should:

  • Ask the couple/planner: "Has the permit been secured for this location?"
  • Verify coverage: Some permits cover only the ceremony, not commercial photography
  • Know the rules: Understand what equipment (tripods, lights, drones) may be restricted
  • Have backup: If permit falls through, know alternative nearby locations