In HI, what are the steps needed to put a lien on property without notifying the owner?

To put a lien on real property you either have to obtain a judgement against the property owner, have a contract signed by the owner listing the property as security for the contract (you may still need to get a judgment), or have performed some work on the property where you were not paid.

In most of those cases, the owner will need to be informed.

As Scott said... but what purpose would be served by not notifying them? Don't you WANT paid?