This is PermitBase’s published record for Unincorporated Bernalillo County as of 2026-07-02. It has since been superseded — see the current record. A historical record reflects what PermitBase had verified at that time; it may not capture a real-world change the jurisdiction had made but PermitBase had not yet verified, and it includes any errors we later corrected. Snapshots are never edited retroactively.
Unincorporated Bernalillo County building permits
VerifiedUnincorporated Bernalillo County, New Mexico — as published 2026-07-02.
Verified 2026-07-02 · Source
Codes adopted
Bernalillo County Building Ordinance, Ordinance No. 2024-8 (adopted August 13, 2024; repeals and replaces prior Ordinance 2009-5) — Bernalillo County Code Chapter 10, Article II — GOVERNANCE MODEL: Bernalillo County operates its OWN Local Enforcement Agency (the Planning & Development Services Building Program, headed by a County Certified Building Official) for the unincorporated area, rather than defaulting to the New Mexico Construction Industries Division (CID) for plan review/inspection. However, Sec. 10-34 of the ordinance expressly adopts BY REFERENCE 'the current codes adopted by the State of New Mexico Construction Industries Division,' amended by the county's own Exhibit A amendments — so the substantive code editions in force track whatever CID has currently adopted statewide, layered with Bernalillo County-specific amendments.International Building Code (IBC), including Appendix Chapters B, C, E, H, I, and J — adopted by reference to the current CID-adopted edition, per Ordinance 2024-8 Sec. 10-34(1)International Residential Code (IRC), including Appendix Chapters G, H, and K — adopted by reference to the current CID-adopted edition, per Ordinance 2024-8 Sec. 10-34(2)International Existing Building Code (IEBC), as published by ICC — Ordinance 2024-8 Sec. 10-34(3)International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) — Ordinance 2024-8 Sec. 10-34(4). NM CID's Construction Industries Commission voted to adopt the 2021 IECC/energy code family (per CID's own 2024 press release 'Construction Industries Commission votes to adopt new energy-efficient building codes' and CID's 2021 Residential Energy Code Fact Sheet), which is the edition presently in force through this reference chain.New Mexico Earthen Building Materials Code — CID-adopted, effective July 1, 2011 — Ordinance 2024-8 Sec. 10-34(5)New Mexico Non-Load Bearing Straw Construction Building Standard — CID-adopted, effective July 1, 2011 — Ordinance 2024-8 Sec. 10-34(6)International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC), as published by ICC — Ordinance 2024-8 Sec. 10-34(7)Uniform Mechanical Code (UMC), as published by IAPMO (International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials) — Ordinance 2024-8 Sec. 10-34(8). NOTE: Bernalillo County uses the IAPMO Uniform Mechanical/Plumbing/Solar/Pool code family rather than the ICC's IMC/IPC/IFGC family used by many other states.Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC), as published by IAPMO — Ordinance 2024-8 Sec. 10-34(9). The county's own homeowner plumbing-test materials (Homeowners Plumbing/Electrical/Mechanical Work page, bernco.gov) cite the 2015 IAPMO Uniform Plumbing Code as the current test/reference edition in practice.National Electrical Code (NEC), as published by NFPA — Ordinance 2024-8 Sec. 10-34(10). NOTE: The county's own Homeowners Electrical Exam information sheet (Electrical-HomeOwners-exam-info, rev. 8/2025) specifies the only code books permitted for the county's homeowner electrical exam are the '2020 N.E.C., 2020 N.M.E.C. [New Mexico Electrical Code], and the most current Bernalillo County Ordinance' — indicating 2020 NEC is the edition in practical current use for that exam, even though the ordinance text itself does not hard-code an edition year.New Mexico Electrical Safety Code, as adopted by CID, effective January 1, 2008 — Ordinance 2024-8 Sec. 10-34(11)Uniform Swimming Pool, Spa and Hot Tub Code, as published by IAPMO — Ordinance 2024-8 Sec. 10-34(12)Uniform Solar Energy Code, as published by IAPMO — Ordinance 2024-8 Sec. 10-34(13)Bernalillo County amendments to the above International/Uniform/New Mexico codes are compiled as Exhibit A to Ordinance 2024-8 and together with the base codes are termed the 'Uniform Construction Codes of Bernalillo County,' controlling within the unincorporated area.
Permit types & fees
Residential Building Permit
VerifiedRequired for new residential construction, additions, and structural alterations in unincorporated Bernalillo County. Issued directly by Bernalillo County Planning & Development Services (not the City of Albuquerque) for properties located in the unincorporated county. The Residential Building Packet (rev. 2/18/2025) is the county's official application bundle.
Verified 2026-07-02 · Source
Requirements
- New single-family dwelling construction
- Additions to existing residential structures
- Any structural change or alteration to a building (per FAQ: 'a building permit is required for any structural change or alteration made in a building, or when any new construction is undertaken')
- Project must comply with the Bernalillo County Zoning Ordinance for the applicable zone (A-1, A-2, R-1, R-2, or M-H)
- Homeowners may self-perform work on their own primary residence via a Homeowner Permit (requires a signed Homeowner Responsibility form and, per State of New Mexico Construction Industries Division rules, filing the CID Homeowner Building Permit Application/Instructions packet in lieu of a CID license)
Required documents
- RequiredBernalillo County Building Permit ApplicationCounty application form included in the Residential Building Packet; requires site information, UPC number, legal description, contractor or homeowner-permit designation, construction data, and valuation of work
- RequiredPlot Plan (min. 8.5x11 in)Owner's name, site address, legal description (subdivision/lot/block), UPC number, distances from property lines and existing structures to proposed construction, location of water supply and liquid waste disposal
- RequiredFoundation Plan (min. 8.5x17 in)Location, size, dimensions and depth below grade of all footings, piers, stem walls and retaining walls, footing section detail, and perimeter insulation R-value/size/depth
- RequiredFloor Plan (min. 8.5x17 in)All rooms labeled by use, door/window sizes and U-factors, safety glazing locations, smoke detector and carbon monoxide alarm locations (hard-wired with battery backup, inside and outside each bedroom), garage separation
- RequiredFloor and Roof Framing Plan (min. 8.5x17 in)Size, spacing and spans of structural members; lumber grade/species; engineered truss details; job-specific engineering for non-conventional wood members (vigas, log posts) requires a lumber grading stamp/certification
- RequiredElevations (min. 8.5x17 in)Four exterior elevations showing windows, doors, porches, columns, roof height, finish floor and finish grade elevations
- RequiredWall Section (min. 8.5x17 in)Interior/exterior wall construction, footing depth/height, insulation R-values, roof decking and slope
- RequiredIECC Residential Compliance CertificateCompleted International Energy Conservation Code Residential Compliance Certificate (based on current adopted NMAC) with supporting documentation for the chosen compliance path (Prescriptive, U-Factor Alternative, Total UA Alternative, or Simulated Performance)
- RequiredManual J / Manual D CalculationsHVAC equipment sizing (Manual J) and duct sizing (Manual D) calculations, prepared by a qualified professional, plus a duct layout plan with duct/outlet sizes labeled
- OptionalOnsite Wastewater or Sewer DocumentationWhere city sewer is unavailable, a wastewater permit from Bernalillo County Natural Resource Services (NRS) is required (10-day review); where city water is unavailable, a Water Source application from NRS is required
- RequiredResidential Water Conservation Measures FormMust be approved before permit issuance for new construction or additions with plumbing, per the county Water Conservation Ordinance
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Building Permit Fee | $30.00 plus $4.00 per $1,000.00 of valuation | Bernalillo County Administrative Resolution 25-2009, Table 3-A, effective May 1, 2009 and still the fee schedule linked from the county's current Permit Fees page (bernco.gov/planning/building-services/permit-fees-res-25-2009/) |
| Building Plan Review Fee | $30.00 plus $2.00 per $1,000.00 of valuation | Resolution 25-2009, Table 3-A |
| Re-inspection Fee | $47.00 each | Resolution 25-2009, Table 3-A, Item 2 |
| Inspections Outside Normal Business Hours | $47.00 per hour (2-hour minimum); $75.00 per hour weekends/observed holidays (4-hour minimum) per Item 8 | Resolution 25-2009, Table 3-A, Items 1 and 8 |
| Preliminary and Integrated Plan Review | $75.00 per hour | Resolution 25-2009, Table 3-A, Item 6 |
Electrical Permit
VerifiedRequired for electrical installations, alterations, and repairs in unincorporated Bernalillo County. Professional contractors apply through the Accela Citizen Access (ACA) online portal; homeowners performing their own electrical work on a primary residence must pass a county Homeowners Electrical Exam.
Verified 2026-07-02 · Source
Requirements
- Valid State of New Mexico electrical contractor license (for contractor-pulled permits) and a current Bernalillo County Business License
- Homeowners performing their own electrical work must pass the Bernalillo County Homeowners Electrical Exam (75% passing score) and obtain a permit — not permitted for commercial or industrial work
- Property must be verified as within unincorporated Bernalillo County (not City of Albuquerque) before applying via Accela
Required documents
- RequiredAccela Citizen Access ApplicationAll professional electrical permit applications are submitted online via the Accela Citizen Access portal — PDF/paper forms are no longer accepted
- OptionalHomeowners Electrical Permit Exam CertificationRequired for homeowner (non-contractor) electrical permits; open-book exam using 2020 NEC, 2020 New Mexico Electrical Code, and the current Bernalillo County Building Ordinance, given every Monday at 8:30 AM, 2-hour time limit, $25 exam fee
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Administrative Charge (applies to all electrical permit applications) | $23.50 each | Resolution 25-2009, Table 3-B, Item 1 (exception: re-inspection fees) |
| Meter Loop | $20.00 each | Resolution 25-2009, Table 3-B, Item 2 |
| Outlets — Communication, Signal, Fixtures, Switches, Receptacles (first 20) | $0.75 each | Resolution 25-2009, Table 3-B, Item 3(a); $0.45 each for all over 20 (Item 3(b)) |
| Motor Operated Equipment (1 HP and over) | $10.00 per horsepower, maximum $20.00 per unit | Resolution 25-2009, Table 3-B, Item 5 |
| Evaporative Cooler (any size) | $4.00 each | Resolution 25-2009, Table 3-B, Item 6 |
| Sign Connections | $20.00 each | Resolution 25-2009, Table 3-B, Item 9 |
| Homeowner Electrical Exam Fee | $25.00 (due at time of testing) | Bernalillo County Homeowners Electrical Exam info sheet, rev. 8/2025 |
| Re-inspection Fee | $47.00 each | Resolution 25-2009, Table 3-B (continuation page) |
Plumbing Permit
VerifiedRequired for plumbing installations, alterations, and repairs, including water heater replacement, in unincorporated Bernalillo County. Governed by the Uniform Plumbing Code (IAPMO) as adopted through Bernalillo County Building Ordinance 2024-8. Professional applications go through Accela Citizen Access; qualifying homeowners may take a county plumbing test to self-perform limited scopes of work.
Verified 2026-07-02 · Source
Requirements
- Water heater installation or replacement
- New plumbing fixture installations, water/sewer line work, gas line installation
- Valid State of New Mexico plumbing contractor license and current Bernalillo County Business License for contractor-pulled permits
- Homeowners may self-perform ONLY domestic water distribution in the house and yard line, sanitary sewer drain lines in the house and sewer yard lines, and venting for sanitary drainage — after passing a county plumbing test. Homeowners may NOT self-perform gas piping, HVAC ductwork, radiant tubing, or installation of gas heating/cooling appliances under a plumbing homeowner permit.
Required documents
- RequiredAccela Citizen Access ApplicationProfessional plumbing/gas permit applications are submitted online via Accela Citizen Access — PDF forms are no longer available
- OptionalHomeowner Plumbing Test CertificationRequired for homeowner self-performed plumbing work; test uses the IAPMO 2015 Uniform Plumbing Code, 28 questions, $25 fee, 75% passing grade, administered by the Senior Plumbing/Mechanical Inspector; bring floor plan and sewer/water piping schematic
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Administrative Charge (all plumbing permit applications) | $23.50 each | Resolution 25-2009, Table 3-D, Item 1 (exception: re-inspection fee) |
| Plumbing Fixture | $5.00 each | Resolution 25-2009, Table 3-D, Item 6 |
| Water Distribution System (incl. pool filling system/backflow prevention) | $7.00 each | Resolution 25-2009, Table 3-D, Item 7 |
| Water Service (property line to house) | $7.00 | Resolution 25-2009, Table 3-D, Item 8 |
| House/Building Sewer (property line to house, incl. 2-way cleanout) | $14.00 each | Resolution 25-2009, Table 3-D, Item 10 |
| Gas Outlet | $3.00 each | Resolution 25-2009, Table 3-D, Item 5 |
| Homeowner Plumbing Test Fee | $25.00 | Bernalillo County Homeowner Projects & Permits page; test covers sewer/water piping for a new SFD or bathroom/kitchen addition |
| Gravity Sewer Test / Airvac Sewer Test (yard line) | $10.00 test fee each, plus $37.50 plumbing permit for house sewer yard line | Bernalillo County Homeowner Projects & Permits page |
| Re-inspection Fee | $47.00 each | Resolution 25-2009, Table 3-D (continuation page) |
Mechanical / HVAC Permit
VerifiedRequired for furnace/AC installation or replacement, gas appliance work, and ventilation systems in unincorporated Bernalillo County. Governed by the Uniform Mechanical Code (IAPMO) as adopted through Bernalillo County Building Ordinance 2024-8. Professional applications go through Accela Citizen Access.
Verified 2026-07-02 · Source
Requirements
- Furnace, air conditioner, or heat pump installation or replacement
- Installation or relocation of boilers, absorption systems, or condensing units
- Ductwork, ventilation systems, and exhaust hood installations
- Valid State of New Mexico mechanical contractor license and current Bernalillo County Business License for contractor-pulled permits; homeowners may not self-perform gas appliance installation under the plumbing homeowner permit
Required documents
- RequiredAccela Citizen Access ApplicationProfessional mechanical permit applications are submitted online via Accela Citizen Access — PDF forms are no longer available
- OptionalManual J / Manual D CalculationsHVAC equipment sizing and duct sizing calculations, required as part of the Residential Building Packet for new construction with a furnace
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Administrative Charge (all mechanical permit applications) | $23.50 each | Resolution 25-2009, Table 3-C, Item 1 (exception: permits written for rejection of work) |
| Each Appliance (incl. ducts/venting; excludes boilers, refrigeration, AC, absorption units) | $7.00 | Resolution 25-2009, Table 3-C, Item 6 |
| Repair/Alteration/Addition to Heating Appliance, Refrigeration Unit, Boiler, Cooling System | $8.00 | Resolution 25-2009, Table 3-C, Item 7 |
| Boiler/Absorption System Installation (up to 36,000 BTU output) | $11.00 | Resolution 25-2009, Table 3-C, Item 8 (higher BTU tiers: $20.00, $27.00, $40.00, $67.00 per Items 9–12) |
| Air Handling Unit (incl. attached ducts) | $7.00 | Resolution 25-2009, Table 3-C, Item 13 |
| Evaporative Cooler (other than portable) | $7.00 | Resolution 25-2009, Table 3-C, Item 14 |
| Ventilation Fan (single duct) | $7.00 | Resolution 25-2009, Table 3-C, Item 15 |
| Re-inspection Fee | $47.00 per hour | Resolution 25-2009, Table 3-C, Other Inspections and Fees, Item 2 |
Re-Roof Permit
VerifiedRequired for roof replacement and re-roofing in unincorporated Bernalillo County, using the county's dedicated Re-Roof Permit Application (rev. 3/2026). Per the county's zoning permit matrix, simple repair of shingles or corrugated metal roofing does not require a permit, but full re-roofing, recovering, or replacement does.
Verified 2026-07-02 · Source
Requirements
- Complete tear-off and re-roof, or recovering/replacing an existing roof
- Repair of shingles or corrugated metal roofing does NOT require a permit per the county's Detailed Property Zone Permit Information matrix
- Structural roof alterations require a permit in all zoning districts (A-1, A-2, R-1, R-2, M-H)
- When concrete/clay roof tiles replace any other roof covering type, the existing roof structure must be inspected and certified by a New Mexico-licensed architect or structural engineer for adequacy against the increased dead load
Required documents
- RequiredRe-Roof Permit ApplicationCounty form (rev. 3/2026) — contractor/owner info, roof type, pitch, deck condition (existing to remain vs. re-sheath/sheathing repair), existing/proposed covering, roofing manufacturer and product name
- OptionalEngineering Inspection ReportRequired only when installing concrete/clay tile over a different existing covering type — must certify existing trusses/rafters can support the increased dead load
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Building Permit Fee (valuation-based) | $30.00 plus $4.00 per $1,000.00 of valuation | Resolution 25-2009, Table 3-A — re-roofing is priced under the general Building Permit Fee formula, as no dedicated re-roof line item appears in the fee resolution |
| Building Plan Review Fee | $30.00 plus $2.00 per $1,000.00 of valuation | Resolution 25-2009, Table 3-A |
| Re-inspection Fee | $47.00 each | Resolution 25-2009, Table 3-A |
Solar Panel Permit
VerifiedRequired for residential and commercial solar PV and solar hot water installations (roof-mounted, ground/pole-mounted) in unincorporated Bernalillo County, per the county's Solar Packet (rev. 2/19/2024). Structural engineering may be exempted for roof-mount systems meeting specific weight/height/attachment criteria.
Verified 2026-07-02 · Source
Requirements
- Rooftop, ground-mounted, or pole-mounted solar PV or solar hot water installation
- Roof-mount systems: engineering calculations required UNLESS all exception criteria are met — typical residential rafter/truss construction (min. 2x4, max 24 in on-center spacing), single-layer roofing material per IRC Section R905 (excluding clay/concrete tile or slate), panels attached directly or via continuous rails at no more than 4 ft on-center, system weight not exceeding 5 psf or 45 lbs concentrated load per attachment point (200 lbs max per framing member), and maximum panel height 18 inches above the roof surface
- Ground/pole-mount systems: engineering required if total structure height above grade (to top of panel) exceeds 6 feet
- Roof-mounted arrays must maintain 3 feet of clearance around the array
- All installations, markings, signage, and warning labels must comply with the current NEC, state codes, and the Uniform Solar Energy Code
Required documents
- RequiredBuilding Permit Application (Solar Packet)County application form for solar array installations, homeowner or contractor permit type
- RequiredSite PlanExisting structures on site (sheds, garages, etc.) and array location
- OptionalFooting DetailRequired only for ground- or pole-mounted systems — footing length, width, depth below grade, reinforcement
- OptionalRoof Framing PlanRequired only for roof-mounted systems — existing framing slope, member size, grade, and spans
- RequiredSolar Array Weight and Loading Calculation WorksheetCounty worksheet calculating point load and distributed load per the exception criteria (max 45 lbs per connection point, 200 lbs per framing member; max 5 lbs/sq ft distributed load)
- RequiredElectrical One-Line DiagramNumber and rating of PV panels, total system voltage/kW output, conductor and conduit sizes, overcurrent device and disconnect ampacity, main panel/subpanel max ampacity
- OptionalEngineering Calculations (with PE/architect stamp)Required for roof-mount systems not meeting the exception criteria, and for all ground/pole-mount systems over 6 ft, and for ALL commercial installations (no exception for commercial)
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Solar Collectors — Related Piping/Ductwork/Regulating Devices (up to 1,000 sq ft) | $4.00 | Resolution 25-2009, Table 3-C, Item 20 (tiered: $6.00 for 1,001–2,000 sq ft; $6.00 plus $1.50 per 1,000 sq ft over 2,000 sq ft) |
| Solar Storage Tanks (up to 750 gallons) | $3.00 | Resolution 25-2009, Table 3-C, Item 21 (tiered: $4.00 for 751–2,000 gal; $4.00 plus $1.50 per 1,000 gal over 2,000 gal) |
| Solar Rock Storage (up to 1,500 cu ft) | $3.00 | Resolution 25-2009, Table 3-C, Item 22 (tiered: $4.00 for 1,501–3,000 cu ft; $4.00 plus $1.50 per 1,000 cu ft over 3,000 cu ft) |
| Building Permit Fee (valuation-based, for the array structure) | $30.00 plus $4.00 per $1,000.00 of valuation | Resolution 25-2009, Table 3-A — the solar packet's building permit application references 2015 IBC Sec. 108.3/109.3 valuation for setting the fee |
Accessory Dwelling Unit (Secondary Dwelling Unit / Accessory Living Quarters)
VerifiedBernalillo County does not use the term 'ADU' — it recognizes a Secondary Dwelling Unit (SDU, locally called a 'casita': a detached second dwelling with a full kitchen and bathroom) and an Accessory Living Quarters (ALQ: a detached living space with a bathroom but no kitchen/stove), per the county's Multi-Generational & Property Owner Housing Options brochure (updated April 2025). Both are available in the A-1, A-2, R-1, R-2, and M-H zoning districts.
Verified 2026-07-02 · Source
Requirements
- SDU: permissive use (building permit only) if all site requirements are met — must be stick-built or modular on a permanent foundation (not a mobile/manufactured home, park model, or RV); cannot exceed 1,000 sq ft or 50% of the primary dwelling's square footage, whichever is smaller; must be at least 10 ft from other structures; must be connected to sewer or septic per Natural Resource Services
- SDU maximum separation distance from primary dwelling based on lot size: 35 ft (lot ≤0.5 acre), 40 ft (0.5–1 acre), 50 ft (≥1 acre) — exceeding this requires a Conditional Use Permit
- SDU setbacks by zone: R-1/M-H — front 20 ft, side 7 ft (or 8/6 ft), rear 15 ft; A-1/A-2 — front 25 ft, side 10 ft, rear 25 ft
- ALQ: permissive use up to 500 sq ft; may include a bathroom but CANNOT include a stove or a gas/electrical connection for a future stove; can only be occupied by 2 people and cannot be separately rented; only one ALQ per property; if the structure containing the ALQ exceeds 600 sq ft in R-1/R-2/M-H zones, a Conditional Use Permit is required (no size limit on the accessory structure in A-1/A-2, though the 500 sq ft ALQ limit still applies)
- ALQ setbacks: front yard setback matches the primary dwelling's zone requirement; side and rear yard setback is 5 ft; must be at least 10 ft from other structures
- A property may not simultaneously have an SDU, an ALQ, a second kitchen, AND a mobile home for medical hardship — only one of these housing options is permitted per lot
- A building permit is required in addition to zoning approval for all of these housing types
Required documents
- RequiredSite Plan (to scale)Must show ALL existing and proposed buildings, structures, property dimensions, and site conditions — required for both permissive-use building permit applications and Conditional Use applications
- RequiredBuilding Permit ApplicationBernalillo County Building Permit Application (Residential Building Packet) once zoning entitlement is confirmed
- OptionalConditional Use Permit ApplicationRequired only if the SDU/ALQ does not meet the permissive-use criteria (e.g., lot too small, separation distance exceeded, setback not met, or ALQ structure over 600 sq ft in R-1/R-2/M-H); subject to Zoning Administrator discretionary approval, public notice, and a public hearing
- RequiredFull Construction PlansComplete floor plan, elevations, structural details per the Residential Building Packet requirements
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Building Permit Fee (valuation-based) | $30.00 plus $4.00 per $1,000.00 of valuation | Resolution 25-2009, Table 3-A — SDU/ALQ construction is permitted and fee-calculated as standard residential construction; no separate ADU fee line item exists in the fee resolution |
| Building Plan Review Fee | $30.00 plus $2.00 per $1,000.00 of valuation | Resolution 25-2009, Table 3-A |
Water Heater Permit
VerifiedWater heater installation and replacement is regulated under Bernalillo County's Plumbing Permit process and fee-priced as a plumbing fixture item under Resolution 25-2009.
Verified 2026-07-02 · Source
Requirements
- Water heater installation or replacement (any fuel type)
- Homeowners may self-perform water heater work as part of domestic water distribution ONLY if they have passed the county's homeowner plumbing test; gas-fired water heater venting/gas connection work is explicitly excluded from the homeowner plumbing-test scope and requires a licensed contractor
- Valid New Mexico plumbing contractor license and current Bernalillo County Business License for contractor-pulled permits
Required documents
- RequiredAccela Citizen Access ApplicationProfessional plumbing/gas permit applications (including water heater replacement) are submitted online via Accela Citizen Access
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Plumbing Fixture Fee | $5.00 each | Resolution 25-2009, Table 3-D, Item 6 — water heaters are fee-classified as a plumbing fixture; no separate 'water heater' line item exists in the fee schedule |
| Administrative Charge | $23.50 each | Resolution 25-2009, Table 3-D, Item 1, applies to all plumbing permit applications |
| Gas Outlet (if gas water heater requires new gas connection) | $3.00 each | Resolution 25-2009, Table 3-D, Item 5 |
| Re-inspection Fee | $47.00 each | Resolution 25-2009, Table 3-D |
Swimming Pool Permit
VerifiedRequired for in-ground and above-ground swimming pool installation exceeding 24 inches in depth in unincorporated Bernalillo County, per the county's Swimming Pool Packet (rev. Dec. 2024). Requires coordination across Building Services, Public Works, and Natural Resource Services.
Verified 2026-07-02 · Source
Requirements
- Pools, spas, hot tubs, jacuzzis more than 24 inches deep above or below grade with water capacity not exceeding 5,000 gallons require a permit (per the county's zoning permit matrix); larger pools also require a permit
- Plans must bear a New Mexico-licensed architect's or engineer's stamp, signature, and date
- Uncovered pools/spas/hot tubs/jacuzzis in unincorporated Bernalillo County must be surrounded by a wall or fence at least 6 feet in height (Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance Sec. 22.D.2.c); if an approved pool cover is installed, the barrier need only be 4 feet high on the side facing away from the pool
- A Bernalillo County Public Works site visit and sign-off (Development Review Section) is required before Building Final inspection
- A Hold Harmless Affidavit is required if Public Works determines no Grading and Drainage Plan is needed; if a Grading and Drainage Plan IS required, a registered Professional Engineer must prepare it before a permit can issue
Required documents
- RequiredBuilding Permit Application (Pool Packet)County application form for swimming pool permits
- RequiredPlot PlanOwner name, site address, legal description, UPC, distances from property lines/existing structures, water supply/waste disposal location
- RequiredPublic Works Form (Building Permit for Swimming Pools)Completed after a Public Works Development Review Section site visit (call 505-848-1500); documents whether a Grading and Drainage Plan is required
- OptionalHold Harmless AffidavitRequired if Public Works determines no Grading and Drainage Plan is needed — a notarized variance request from the Bernalillo County Storm Drainage Ordinance No. 96-5 and AMAFCA Drainage Policy
- RequiredPool Barrier Responsibility StatementDocuments the pool barrier/fence design meeting the 6 ft (or 4 ft with approved cover) height requirement, shown on the site plan
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Swimming Pool (Private) — Electrical | $30.00 each | Resolution 25-2009, Table 3-B, Item 15 |
| Swimming Pool (Private) — Plumbing | $30.00 each | Resolution 25-2009, Table 3-D, Item 18 |
| Building Permit Fee (valuation-based) | $30.00 plus $4.00 per $1,000.00 of valuation | Resolution 25-2009, Table 3-A; the pool application references 2015 IBC Sec. 108.3 for valuation |
| Public Works Development Review | Contact Public Works Development Review Section, (505) 848-1500, for current fee | Fee not published in the Pool Packet or Resolution 25-2009 — omitted rather than estimated; confirmed by phone per the packet's own instructions |
Fence / Wall Permit
VerifiedFences and walls in unincorporated Bernalillo County require a permit above certain height thresholds, per the county's Detailed Property Zone Permit Information matrix (rev. 3/2019), applicable uniformly across the A-1, A-2, R-1, R-2, and M-H zones.
Verified 2026-07-02 · Source
Requirements
- Solid fences over 6 feet require a building permit in all zoning districts
- Low freestanding walls/fences under 30 inches above grade that are NOT attached to a dwelling do not require a permit (per the county's zoning permit matrix, subject to the under-6-ft condition)
- Retaining walls exceeding 4 feet in height (bottom of footing to top of wall) require a permit and must be designed by a registered professional per the Residential Building Packet requirements
- All yard walls and retaining walls that are not part of the building must have their own separate permits
Required documents
- RequiredBuilding Permit ApplicationStandard Bernalillo County Building Permit Application for wall/fence permits over the height threshold
- RequiredSite PlanWall/fence location relative to property lines and existing structures
- OptionalEngineered Wall PlansRequired for retaining walls over 4 feet (footing to top of wall) — stamped by a licensed New Mexico professional
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Building Permit Fee (valuation-based) | $30.00 plus $4.00 per $1,000.00 of valuation | Resolution 25-2009, Table 3-A — walls/fences over the permit threshold are priced under the general building permit fee formula; no separate wall/fence fee line item exists in the fee resolution |
| Building Plan Review Fee | $30.00 plus $2.00 per $1,000.00 of valuation | Resolution 25-2009, Table 3-A |
Demolition Permit
VerifiedRequired for demolition of structures in unincorporated Bernalillo County, per the county's zoning permit matrix and the fee resolution's dedicated demolition fee tier.
Verified 2026-07-02 · Source
Requirements
- Complete or partial demolition of a structure
- Demolition of existing buildings requires a permit in all zoning districts (A-1, A-2, R-1, R-2, M-H) per the county's Detailed Property Zone Permit Information matrix
Required documents
- RequiredBuilding Permit ApplicationStandard Bernalillo County Building Permit Application, Demolition option
- RequiredUtility Disconnect ConfirmationUtilities must be disconnected before demolition
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Demolition Permit Fee (up to and including 1,500 sq ft of floor area, all floors and basements) | $47.00 | Resolution 25-2009, Table 3-A, Item 9; each additional 500 sq ft or fraction thereof adds $10.00 |
Manufactured / Mobile Home Placement Permit
VerifiedRequired for placement of a manufactured, modular, or mobile home in unincorporated Bernalillo County, administered jointly by Planning & Development Services (zoning), Public Works (legal access approval), and Natural Resource Services (water/wastewater approval), per the county's Zoning Manufactured Home Permit Requirements sheet.
Verified 2026-07-02 · Source
Requirements
- Permanent foundation permit required (not required in Zones A-2 or M-H)
- Manufacturer's Certification of Zone Code II or III required (not required in Zones A-2 or M-H)
- Public Works approval for legal access
- Natural Resource Services / Environmental Health approval verifying ABCWUA sewer/water account status or valid well/wastewater permits, and confirming setback distances for wastewater systems and wells
- Impact Fee assessment applies unless land+housing value is under $130,000, which may qualify for an affordable-housing impact fee waiver
Required documents
- RequiredSite Plan (1 copy, min. 8.5x11 in)North arrow, all property lines with dimensions, adjacent rights-of-way, easements, proposed structures distinguished from existing, setbacks, water well/septic location, property entrance
- OptionalCopy of Permanent Foundation PermitNot required in Zones A-2 or M-H
- OptionalManufacturer's Certification of Zone Code II or IIINot required in Zones A-2 or M-H
- OptionalCopy of City Sewer/Water Bill or ApplicationIf applicable
- RequiredCopy of Water Well and/or Septic PermitFrom Bernalillo County Environmental Health, 3rd Floor, 111 Union Square SE
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Manufactured/Mobile Home Zoning Permit Fee | $70.00 plus applicable Impact Fee | Bernalillo County Zoning Manufactured Home Permit Requirements sheet; an affordable-housing impact fee waiver may apply if land and housing together are valued under $130,000 |
Sources & verification
Verified against official sources. Last reviewed 2026-07-02.
Fee schedules
Applications & forms
Checklists & handouts
Codes & ordinances
Department & other records
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 Unincorporated Bernalillo County building department before you submit. PermitBase is an independent reference and is not affiliated with any government agency.