Residential Addition / Alteration / Remodel Permit in Albuquerque, New Mexico
VerifiedRequired for additions, alterations, and remodels of existing residential structures in Albuquerque, including room additions, garage conversions, and structural remodels. Apply online through ABQ-PLAN.
Verified 2026-07-02 · Source
When you need this permit
- Room additions, structural alterations, and remodels of existing single-family and two-family dwellings require a building permit
- Submit plans drawn to scale showing scope of work and conformance with the Technical Codes and UAC Section 110.3
- Permit issued only to a homeowner (owner-occupied residence) or a New Mexico-licensed contractor (GB-2 or GB-98 classification)
- Metal/aluminum frame construction plans must be certified by a New Mexico-registered professional engineer
- Separate trade permits (electrical, plumbing, mechanical) required for MEP work associated with the addition/remodel
Required documents
- Required
Building Permit Application
Submitted online through ABQ-PLAN
- Required
Construction Drawings
Plan views at minimum 1/4"=1'-0" scale with sections/details at minimum 1/2"=1'-0" scale, showing scope of work and connection to the existing structure
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Building Permit Fee (Table 112-A, one- and two-family dwelling regional modifier 0.50, including renovations/alterations/additions) | Same Table 112-A valuation-based formula as new residential construction, with the 0.50 regional modifier applied to additions, alterations, and renovations of one- and two-family dwellings | 2024 City of Albuquerque Uniform Administrative Code, Section 112.2.1 and Table 112-A |
| Plan Review Fee | 65% of the building permit fee | UAC Section 112.3 |
| Re-inspection Fee | $47.00 each | UAC Table 112-A, Other Inspections and Fees |
Review timeline
13–13 business days
Albuquerque’s published plan-review target
Inspection process
- 1
Frame Inspection
After framing, fire blocking, bracing, and framed openings are complete and MEP rough-ins are approved
- 2
Frame Insulation Inspection
After insulation and vapor barriers installed
- 3
Exterior Lath / Wallboard Inspection
Before plastering or before wallboard joints/fasteners are taped and finished on firewalls, wet areas, and shear walls
- 4
Final Inspection
After work is complete and ready for occupancy
Tips
- Residential Building Permits (which include additions/alterations) average 13 business days per the City's live Permit Timeline Dashboard.
- Garage conversions and covered patios have their own dedicated Building Safety checklists — check the Building Safety Forms, Reports & Permit Searches page for the applicable checklist before submitting.
- Separate electrical, plumbing, and mechanical trade permits are required in addition to the building permit for MEP work.
- Only a homeowner (owner-occupied) or a New Mexico GB-2/GB-98 licensed contractor may be issued the permit.
Frequently asked questions
- Do I need a permit to convert my garage or finish a room addition in Albuquerque?
- Yes. Garage conversions and room additions require a building permit under the Uniform Administrative Code. The City publishes dedicated submittal checklists for Garage Conversion, Residential Addition, Covered Patio, and other common alteration types.
Sources & verification
Verified against official sources. Last reviewed 2026-07-02.
- City of Albuquerque Planning Department — Building Safety Division — official building department
- Permits | City of Albuquerque Building Safety Division
- Residential Addition — Plans & Permit Information | City of Albuquerque
- 2024 City of Albuquerque Uniform Administrative Code (Exhibit A, adopted)
- Building Safety Forms, Reports & Permit Searches | City of Albuquerque
Fees, timelines, and adopted codes are researched from each jurisdiction's published records — see how we verify. Requirements change and vary by project, so always confirm the current details with the Albuquerque building department before you submit. PermitBase is an independent reference and is not affiliated with any government agency.
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