Yes, Shovels captures permits that don’t have an associated address. This is a common occurrence for certain types of construction projects.
Why Permits Lack Addresses
Address IDs are only assigned if physical addresses can be confirmed via internal and third-party databases.
Common reasons for missing addresses:
New Construction
Permits for new construction are often submitted before official addresses exist or streets are named. Construction needs to begin before an official address is assigned by the post office.
Newly Subdivided Parcels
When land is subdivided, permits may be pulled before addresses are created for the new lots.
Undeveloped Land
Projects on undeveloped land where no street address has been established.
What’s Included Without Addresses
For permits without addresses, Shovels still provides:
- Unique permit ID
- State information
- Jurisdiction information
What’s not included:
- Address ID
- Physical address
- Geographic identifiers (county, city codes)
Value of Address-less Permits
These permits are valuable because they often represent:
- New construction projects at their earliest stages
- Early intelligence about upcoming construction activity
- Development opportunities
For users interested in new development opportunities, permits without addresses can provide early signals about upcoming construction.
Address Assignment Over Time
As projects progress and official addresses are assigned:
- The jurisdiction updates their records
- We capture the new address information
- Records are linked, allowing continuous tracking throughout the construction lifecycle
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