Skip to main content
Shovels Online is a powerful web-based tool to help you find building permits and contractors anywhere in the USA.

​
Search Functionality

​
How Does the Search Work?

The Shovels dashboard uses an “AND” search logic. When you select multiple search criteria, the results show permits that match ALL selected criteria, not just one or the other. You can search by description keywords. This is useful for finding:
  • Specific brand names (like Tesla)
  • Building materials
  • Equipment types (such as heat pumps)
The search system does not account for typos or terminology variations. Contractors may use different abbreviations (like “SFR” instead of “single family residence”), so keep this in mind when searching.

​
Permit Statuses

Permits in Shovels Online can have the following statuses:
StatusMeaning
Applied ForThe permit is in review
ActiveThe permit has been approved
FinaledThe permit is fully completed
InactiveNo date changes observed for this permit in a while
Learn more in our permit status details article. Search for contractors based on the types of permits they’ve pulled. The contractor search provides:
  • Business names
  • Total lifetime number of permits pulled
  • Detailed contractor information (for subscribers)
  • Contact information
  • History of permits pulled
Not all permits include contractor information. Some jurisdictions don’t require contractors to provide their contact details.
When viewing permits, you’ll see:
  • Permit status
  • Address (when available)
  • Detailed information about the work being done
Note that some permits may not have addresses—this is common with new construction permits where an address hasn’t been assigned yet.

​
Data Export

Paying customers can download search results as CSV files. This feature is not available on trial accounts.

​
Contact Information