How Shall I Address You?

For our family, it was 1801 Sherman Avenue. That was our address. I never really thought much about it, but if I had, I would have assumed the post office assigned it to us. After all, only the mailman needed it—everyone else just knew where we lived.

When we moved to rural Hawaii, I discovered that not everyone had a street number. In fact, many people didn’t even realize or care about having one. Only homes in town used street addresses, while the rest of us gave directions using the number on the nearest telephone pole.

How Addresses Are Assigned in Hawaii

In Hawaii County, the Planning Department is responsible for assigning addresses. While mail delivery may have been the primary reason for displaying a street address in the past, the implementation of the 9-1-1 system made it necessary for every improved property to have one. Generally, addresses are assigned as part of the building permit process, though it’s possible to apply for one before that. Interestingly, addresses are determined by the location of the driveway, meaning a change in driveway location could change the address. Even numbers are always on the right side of the road, and the Tax Map Key (TMK) is not necessarily part of the address prefix.

Address Display Requirements

Even if the postman never delivers mail to your door, ensuring emergency responders can locate your home could be far more important. Besides, it’s the law. Section 14-84 of the Hawaii County Code mandates that addresses be posted on every property. The address should be displayed by the driveway, with numbers at least three inches high and always readable. If you have a mailbox, addresses should be visible on both sides. Emergency responders shouldn’t have to search for your address, and failure to comply may lead to fines after a registered letter is sent. Defacing or removing an address carries a $500 fine.

Street Numbers and Real Estate

For REALTORS®, clearly displayed street numbers are essential. They not only help locate the property but also prevent potential issues. Sometimes, an owner may have used an incorrect address for years, or the address listed on tax records may be wrong. An incorrect address can cause conflicts in contracts, mortgages, and transfer documents, leading to complications and delays in the sales process. Displaying street numbers might just be the warning sign needed to identify a potential problem.

If you’re unsure about your address, contact the County Planning Department for assistance. Proper address posting makes it easier for emergency responders, your REALTOR®, the Sears repairman, the UPS driver, Santa Claus, the Tooth Fairy, and anyone else who needs to find you. They’ll all be very grateful indeed.