> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.shovels.ai/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Understanding Start and End Dates

> Learn how Shovels defines start_date and end_date fields for permits and how they help you understand permit timelines.

The start date and end date fields in Shovels data help you understand the timeline of each permit.

## Definitions

| Field           | Definition                           |
| --------------- | ------------------------------------ |
| **start\_date** | The first date recorded for a permit |
| **end\_date**   | The last date recorded for a permit  |

These date fields are **generated by Shovels** based on the permit data we collect from jurisdictions.

## How They're Used

Start and end dates help you:

* Calculate total permit duration
* Understand project timelines
* Compare permit processing across jurisdictions
* Identify stalled or delayed projects

## Other Important Date Fields

Shovels also tracks specific milestone dates:

| Field        | Description                              |
| ------------ | ---------------------------------------- |
| `file_date`  | When the permit application was filed    |
| `issue_date` | When the permit was approved/issued      |
| `final_date` | When the project passed final inspection |

<Info>
  For more detailed information on permit timelines and statuses, see our [blog post on permit statuses](https://www.shovels.ai/blog/shovels-101-permit-statuses/).
</Info>

## Related Articles

* [Permit statuses](/docs/knowledge-base/data/permits/permit-statuses)
* [Permit lifecycle](/docs/knowledge-base/data/permits/permit-lifecycle)