> ## 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.

# Historical Data Coverage

> Learn how far back Shovels' historical permit data extends and what affects historical coverage by jurisdiction.

Shovels' data coverage extends back to provide substantial historical context for analysis.

## Coverage Timeframe

Our data extends back to **at least 2010** for all jurisdictions, with many jurisdictions offering data that goes even further back.

## Why 2010?

This timeframe was a technical architecture decision based on:

* Majority of customer feedback
* Common use cases requiring \~10-15 years of history
* Data availability from jurisdictions

## Limitations

In some cases, jurisdictions don't pull historical data into their online systems, which can limit how far back certain records go.

<Info>
  Our coverage of the past decade-plus provides sufficient historical context for most analysis needs, including tracking long-term trends and contractor history.
</Info>

## What You Can Do With Historical Data

* Track property improvement history
* Analyze contractor permit patterns over time
* Understand market trends
* Research long-term construction activity

## Related Articles

* [Geographic coverage](/docs/knowledge-base/data/geographic/coverage-areas)
* [Data refresh frequency](/docs/knowledge-base/data/quality/refresh-frequency)