The strong increase in November is linked with changes in local building codes rather than with economic conditions, said Tim Underwood, HBA executive vice president. Much of the increase in permit activity can be attributed to Kansas City, Mo., and Overland Park, both of which recently adopted new building codes and plan review procedures. Pulling permits before a certain date allows builders to build a home under either the previous codes or the new codes.

“The HBA has supported the new International Codes that are being adopted by most local counties and cities,” Underwood said. “Pulling permits now allows builders to thoroughly study the new code changes and how they will affect the local market. This helps ease the transition to the new code requirements, which in the long run will be more beneficial for both the builder and new home buyers.”

For the year to date, 8,068 single-family permits have been issued, up 2 percent from the 7,881 permits issued through November 2000. This marks the first time this year that activity year-to-date has been ahead of last year’s pace.

Olathe continues to lead the metropolitan area in single-family permit activity with 1,220 permits issued through November. Kansas City, Mo., is second with 1,190 permits, followed by Overland Park with 793 permits and Lee’s Summit with 690.

Rounding out the top-permitting cities for the year-to-date are Shawnee, 446; Lenexa, 297; Independence, 280; Blue Springs, 267; Leawood, 253; and Raymore, 239.

The Home Builders Association of Greater Kansas City (HBA) is the voice of the housing industry and the source for housing information. Comprising more than 1,000 member companies, the HBA represents an industry that contributes more than $2.5 billion to the Kansas City economy and supports more than 36,000 jobs in the Greater Kansas City metropolitan area.