Here in NJ the owner of the property owns the permit and that transfers to a new owner if the property changes hands.
(d) Application for a permit shall be made by the owner, or his agent, a licensed engineer, architect or
plumbing, electrical or other contractor employed in connection with the proposed work. If the application is by a person other than the owner in fee, it shall be accompanied by an affidavit of the owner or the authorized person making the application, that the proposed work is authorized by the owner in fee, and that the applicant is authorized to make such application. All issued permits shall remain the property of the owner even if the application was made by a contractor or authorized agent.