HI HB592

Allows photographs submitted to the Department of Land and Natural Resources for historic building demolitions or major alterations to be in any format, including electronic, rather than requiring archival quality black and white photos.

Defines "major alteration" as modifications involving either more than 50% of the original structure's square footage or a two-story addition to a single-story structure.

Restricts photograph and permit requirements to buildings eligible for listing on the Hawaii or national register of historic places, narrowing the scope from all buildings over 50 years old.

Reduces review timelines from 90 days to 30 days for commercial structures or 15 days for single-family dwellings for department concurrence or non-concurrence.

Directs the Department of Land and Natural Resources and counties to establish a task force by December 31, 2009 to inventory historically significant structures and recommend funding mechanisms for broader historic preservation efforts.