Building Permits are an authorization that must be granted by either a government or regulatory body prior to construction of a new or existing building project can legally occur. This is released by the U.S. Census Bureau once a month, measured in thousands.
Building Permits are a precursor to building and construction activity. It can be used as a barometer for consumer confidence, solvency and can signal economic expansion. E.g. a rise in commercial permits can indicate that businesses are expanding or increased investments in anticipation of heightened economic activity, while an increase in residential permits suggests that consumer are feeling confident and willing to spend.