You are viewing the permanent link for the record currently in effect, published 2026-07-02.
Las Cruces building permits
VerifiedLas Cruces, New Mexico — as published 2026-07-02.
Verified 2026-07-02 · Source
Codes adopted
New Mexico is a statewide-minimum-code state under the Construction Industries Licensing Act (NMSA 1978 § 60-13-44(E)): 'All political subdivisions of the state are subject to the provisions of codes adopted and approved under the Construction Industries Licensing Act. Such codes constitute a minimum requirement for the codes of political subdivisions.' A county or municipality may become its own code-enforcement authority (operate independently of the state Construction Industries Division field offices) if it employs a certified building official and has adopted at least the current state minimum code standards (NMSA 1978 § 60-13-41(D)-(F)). The City of Las Cruces operates its own Building and Development Services / Community Development Department with its own building official and inspection staff (rather than routing permits through the state CID field office model used in unincorporated areas), enforcing the state-adopted codes as the applicable minimum within city limits.2021 New Mexico Commercial & Residential Building Code (based on the 2021 IBC / 2021 IRC), per NM Construction Industries Division (CID) current adoption2021 International Building Code (IBC), as adopted/amended by CID2021 International Residential Code (IRC), as adopted/amended by CID2021 New Mexico Energy Conservation Code (based on the International Energy Conservation Code, IECC) — addresses the New Mexico climate zone for energy conservation; applies to new and renovated residential and commercial buildings2021 New Mexico Plumbing and Mechanical Code, incorporating the 2021 Uniform Mechanical Code (IAPMO) and 2021 Uniform Plumbing Code (IAPMO)2020 New Mexico Electrical Code / 2020 National Electrical Code (NEC), adopted by reference at 14.10.4 NMAC, effective March 28, 2023 (permits issued only under this rule after September 28, 2023) — this is the current, in-force edition; it supersedes any references to a 2023 NEC edition found on third-party aggregator sites2012 Solar Energy Code (IAPMO), as adopted by CID2017 ICC/ANSI A117.1 (Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities), as adopted by CID2012 Uniform Swimming Pool, Spa and Hot Tub Code, as adopted by CIDLas Cruces Land Development Code, Chapter 30 (Buildings and Building Regulations) and Chapter 38 (Zoning) — local building-permit administration, fee schedule, and zoning provisions
Permit types & fees
Residential Building Permit (New Construction)
VerifiedRequired for new single-family dwellings, townhouses, and duplexes in Las Cruces. Reviewed against the 2021 New Mexico Commercial & Residential Building Code (2021 IBC/IRC) and 2021 New Mexico Energy Conservation Code. Applications submitted through the City of Las Cruces Citizen Portal (Accela).
Verified 2026-07-02 · Source
Requirements
- Building permit required for all new single-family dwellings, townhouses, and duplexes
- Must have a valid address assigned by the City before applying
- Apply online through the City of Las Cruces Citizen Portal (Accela Citizen Access)
- Site plan required for all project types
- Construction plans with work description required
- Subdivision Acceptance Form required for new residential construction
- Wind Erosion Control Plan (WECP) required
- Storm Water Pollution Plan (SWPP) required for new residential construction
- A signed contract between permittee and property owner, with proof of ownership, required for all project types
- Reviewed by multiple agencies: Building, Fire, Utilities, Traffic, Environmental Compliance, Engineering, Zoning/Landscaping, Electrical, Plumbing/Mechanical
Required documents
- RequiredBuilding Permit ApplicationSubmitted online through the City of Las Cruces Citizen Portal (Accela)
- RequiredSite PlanRequired for all project types
- RequiredConstruction Plans with Work DescriptionFull construction document set
- RequiredSubdivision Acceptance FormRequired for residential new construction only
- RequiredWind Erosion Control Plan (WECP)Required for all project types
- RequiredStorm Water Pollution Plan (SWPP)Required for residential new construction only
- RequiredSigned Contract Between Permittee and Property OwnerWith some form of identification of ownership; required for all project types
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Residential Building Permit Fee — new single-family dwellings, townhouses, and duplexes | $0.20 per square foot of gross floor area measured to the outside walls; minimum permit fee $50 | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees (effective February 1, 2023), Residential Building Permit Fee section. Fee is due at time of permit issuance and is tripled on permits for work started or completed without an approved permit. |
| Plan Check Fee | 25% of the building permit fee | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees. Due at time of application; non-refundable. |
| Technology Fee — Residential New, Alteration, and Addition | $20 per permit | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees, Administrative Fees section |
| Expedited Permitting | $1,000 in addition to the permit and plan check fee | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees; available on request |
Residential Addition / Alteration / Remodel Permit
VerifiedRequired for additions, alterations, and remodels to existing single-family dwellings, townhouses, and duplexes in Las Cruces. Uses the same $0.20/sq ft fee structure as new residential construction, applied to the work area.
Verified 2026-07-02 · Source
Requirements
- Remodels and additions follow the same permitting process as new construction, based on the work area identified in the construction plans
- Site plan required for all project types
- Construction plans with work description required
- A signed contract between permittee and property owner, with proof of ownership, required
- Apply online through the City of Las Cruces Citizen Portal (Accela)
Required documents
- RequiredBuilding Permit ApplicationSubmitted online through the City of Las Cruces Citizen Portal (Accela)
- RequiredSite PlanRequired for all project types
- RequiredConstruction Plans with Work DescriptionScope of addition/alteration work
- RequiredSigned Contract Between Permittee and Property OwnerWith some form of identification of ownership
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Residential Building Permit Fee — remodels and additions | $0.20 per square foot of the work area identified in the construction plans; minimum permit fee $50 | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees, Residential Building Permit Fee section: 'Remodels and additions follow the same process based on the work area identified in the construction plans.' |
| Plan Check Fee | 25% of the building permit fee | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees |
| Technology Fee — Residential Alteration and Addition | $20 per permit | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees, Administrative Fees section |
| Addendum Fee | $45.00 per reviewer | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees — for additional plan review required by changes, additions, or revisions to approved plans, as determined by the Building Official |
Residential Electrical Permit
VerifiedRequired for electrical installations, alterations, and repairs in Las Cruces residential properties. Governed by the 2020 New Mexico Electrical Code (2020 NEC), adopted by reference at 14.10.4 NMAC, effective March 28, 2023.
Verified 2026-07-02 · Source
Requirements
- Required for installation, alteration, or repair of residential electrical systems
- Electrical sub-contractor permits and fees are required when associated with a general (building) permit, unless stated otherwise
- Work must comply with the 2020 New Mexico Electrical Code (2020 NEC), 14.10.4 NMAC
- Apply online through the City of Las Cruces Citizen Portal (Accela)
Required documents
- RequiredElectrical Permit ApplicationSubmitted online through the City of Las Cruces Citizen Portal (Accela)
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Residential Electrical Permit Fee | $150.00 | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees, Electrical Permit Fees section |
| Residential Electrical — Demonstrated Affordable Housing | $65.00 | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees |
| Residential Electrical — Service/Low Voltage/Mobile Home/Service Temporary/Alternate Energy System (excludes Photovoltaic) | $75.00 | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees |
| Technology Fee — Trade Permit (Electrical) | $10 per permit | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees, Administrative Fees section |
Residential Plumbing Permit
VerifiedRequired for plumbing installations, alterations, and repairs in Las Cruces residential properties. Governed by the 2021 New Mexico Plumbing and Mechanical Code, incorporating the 2021 Uniform Plumbing Code (IAPMO).
Verified 2026-07-02 · Source
Requirements
- Required for new plumbing, remodels, additions, and miscellaneous plumbing work (backflow, yard line, pressure test)
- Plumbing sub-contractor permits and fees are required when associated with a general building permit
- Apply online through the City of Las Cruces Citizen Portal (Accela)
Required documents
- RequiredPlumbing Permit ApplicationSubmitted online through the City of Las Cruces Citizen Portal (Accela)
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Residential Plumbing Permit — Flat Fee New, Remodel, Addition | $150.00 | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees, Plumbing Permit Fee section |
| Residential Plumbing — Demonstrated Affordable Housing | $50.00 | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees |
| Residential Plumbing — Miscellaneous Work (backflow, yard line, pressure test, etc.) | $75.00 | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees |
| Technology Fee — Trade Permit (Plumbing) | $10 per permit | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees, Administrative Fees section |
Residential Mechanical / HVAC Permit
VerifiedRequired for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning installations in Las Cruces residential properties. Governed by the 2021 New Mexico Plumbing and Mechanical Code, incorporating the 2021 Uniform Mechanical Code (IAPMO).
Verified 2026-07-02 · Source
Requirements
- Required for furnace, A/C, heat pump, and related mechanical equipment installation or replacement
- Mechanical sub-contractor permits and fees are required when associated with a general building permit
- Apply online through the City of Las Cruces Citizen Portal (Accela)
Required documents
- RequiredMechanical Permit ApplicationSubmitted online through the City of Las Cruces Citizen Portal (Accela)
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Residential Mechanical Flat Fee | $150.00 | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees, Mechanical Permit Fee section |
| Residential Mechanical — Demonstrated Affordable Housing Fee | $50.00 | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees |
| Technology Fee — Trade Permit (Mechanical) | $10 per permit | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees, Administrative Fees section |
Roofing Permit (Reroof)
VerifiedRequired for roof replacement work in Las Cruces. Fee follows the same valuation-based Building Permit Fee schedule as general construction.
Verified 2026-07-02 · Source
Requirements
- Building permit required for roof replacement/reroofing work
- Fee applies per the applicant's valuation, using the same Building Permit Fee schedule as general construction
- Apply online through the City of Las Cruces Citizen Portal (Accela)
Required documents
- RequiredRoofing Permit ApplicationSubmitted online through the City of Las Cruces Citizen Portal (Accela)
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Roofing Permit Fee | The Building Permit Fee schedule applies per the applicant's valuation (see the general Fee Table: $50 minimum up to $5,830 for the first $1,000,000 plus $4 per additional $1,000) | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees, Roofing Permit Fee section: 'The Building Permit Fee schedule applies per the applicant's valuation. Fee is due at time of permit issuance and is tripled on work started without an approved permit.' |
Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Permit
VerifiedRequired for installation of residential solar photovoltaic systems in Las Cruces. A single flat fee covers plan review, building inspection, and electrical inspection.
Verified 2026-07-02 · Source
Requirements
- Building/electrical permit required for residential solar photovoltaic system installation
- Governed by the 2012 Solar Energy Code (IAPMO) as adopted by the NM Construction Industries Division, plus the 2020 New Mexico Electrical Code for electrical connections
- Apply online through the City of Las Cruces Citizen Portal (Accela)
Required documents
- RequiredSolar Photovoltaic Permit ApplicationSubmitted online through the City of Las Cruces Citizen Portal (Accela)
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Residential Solar Photovoltaic System Permit Fee | $250.00 (includes plan review, building inspection, and electrical inspection) | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees, Solar Photovoltaic System Permit Fee section. Commercial solar PV fees are calculated using the commercial building process instead. |
EV Charger / EVSE Permit
VerifiedElectric vehicle charging equipment (EVSE) installation in Las Cruces is an electrical permit, governed by the 2020 New Mexico Electrical Code (2020 NEC), adopted by reference at 14.10.4 NMAC. The City's 2023 Schedule of Fees (effective February 1, 2023), reviewed page-by-page in full, has no distinct EV-charger/EVSE line item. The Residential Electrical Permit Fees table lists a flat $150.00 'Residential Electrical/Pool Permits' base category alongside a separate $75.00 'Service/Low Voltage/Mobile Home Service/Temporary Service/Alternate Energy System (does not include Photovoltaic)' line. EVSE installation is governed by NEC Article 625 (Electric Vehicle Power Transfer System), a load/branch-circuit article, not by the NEC's generation-side articles (690 Solar PV, 694 Wind, 705 Interconnected Power) that 'Alternate Energy System' tracks -- the schedule's own parenthetical excluding Photovoltaic confirms that line targets on-site generation/backup-power hookups, not load additions like an EV charger. On that NEC-article basis, a standalone EV charger circuit with no service change is billed under the general $150.00 Residential Electrical/Pool Permits base fee; the $75.00 line would apply only if the installation also requires a service/low-voltage change.
Verified 2026-07-20 · Source
Requirements
- Electrical permit required for EVSE/EV charger circuit installation, alteration, or repair, governed by the 2020 New Mexico Electrical Code (2020 NEC), 14.10.4 NMAC
- Electrical sub-contractor permits and fees are required when associated with a general (building) permit, unless stated otherwise
- Apply online through the City of Las Cruces Citizen Portal (Accela)
- No dedicated EVSE fee line exists on the 2023 Schedule of Fees; a standalone charger circuit with no service change is billed under the general $150 Residential Electrical/Pool Permits base fee (NEC Article 625 branch-circuit work does not fall under the schedule's generation-focused 'Alternate Energy System' line) — the $75 Service/Low Voltage line applies only if the installation also requires a service/panel change
Required documents
- RequiredElectrical Permit ApplicationSubmitted online through the City of Las Cruces Citizen Portal (Accela)
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Residential Electrical/Pool Permits (general base category) | $150.00 | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees, Electrical Permit Fees section, re-confirmed live 2026-07-20 — no distinct EV-charger/EVSE line item exists; a standalone EV charger circuit added to an existing panel is branch-circuit work under NEC Article 625, not generation equipment, so it is billed under this general residential electrical base fee rather than the schedule's 'Alternate Energy System' line. |
| Service/Low Voltage/Mobile Home Service/Temporary Service/Alternate Energy System (does not include Photovoltaic) | $75.00 | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees — applies instead of the $150 base fee only if the EV charger installation also requires a service/panel change; the 'Alternate Energy System' sub-category (generation/backup-power hookups per NEC Articles 690/694/705) does not apply to EVSE load equipment |
| Technology Fee — Trade Permit (Electrical) | $10 per permit | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees, Administrative Fees section |
Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Permit
VerifiedConstruction of an accessory dwelling unit in Las Cruces is permitted through the standard residential building permit process (no separate ADU fee category is published by the City), subject to the statewide zoning floor established by New Mexico House Bill 425 (2023), codified as an amendment to NMSA 1978 § 3-21-1.
Verified 2026-07-02 · Source
Requirements
- Zoning authorities in New Mexico, including home-rule municipalities such as Las Cruces, must accommodate construction of one additional dwelling unit per lot within a single-family zoning district, regardless of lot size, per NMSA 1978 § 3-21-1 (as amended by 2023 House Bill 425)
- Statewide floor: the additional dwelling unit may not exceed 1,000 square feet
- Statewide floor: side and rear setbacks no more than 5 feet from the property line and 10 feet from any other structure on the property
- A zoning authority may not impose a single-family or owner-occupancy requirement specific to the additional dwelling unit as a condition of the permit
- Lack of adequate water, sewer, or other infrastructure capacity alone may not be used as a basis to delay or deny a building permit for the additional dwelling unit, per the statute
- The ADU structure itself is permitted as residential new construction — apply through the standard Residential Building Permit process (site plan, construction plans, ownership documentation) via the City of Las Cruces Citizen Portal (Accela)
- Trade permits (electrical, plumbing, mechanical) apply separately if the ADU includes those systems
Required documents
- RequiredBuilding Permit ApplicationSubmitted online through the City of Las Cruces Citizen Portal (Accela); ADUs are processed as residential new construction
- RequiredSite PlanShowing the ADU's location, setbacks from property lines and other structures on the lot
- RequiredConstruction Plans with Work DescriptionFull construction document set for the ADU structure
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Building Permit Fee (ADU processed as residential new construction) | $0.20 per square foot of gross floor area; minimum permit fee $50 | The City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees does not publish a distinct ADU fee category — an ADU is billed under the same Residential Building Permit Fee section as new single-family construction, since it is a new dwelling structure on the lot. |
| Plan Check Fee | 25% of the building permit fee | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees |
Sign Permit
VerifiedRequired for installation, alteration, or reconstruction of most signs within Las Cruces city limits, under Land Development Code Chapter 36 (Signs), unless the specific sign type is exempted under LDC Sec. 36-9(b). Fee is based on sign type (attached, pole, monument, multi-sign site plan, or billboard) rather than project valuation; an additional electrical permit is required separately for illuminated signs.
Verified 2026-07-22 · Source
Requirements
- A sign permit is required for all signs in the city unless specifically exempted under LDC Sec. 36-9(b) — exempt categories include accessory use signs, real estate signs and construction/renovation signs not exceeding 16 sq ft, model complex signs not exceeding 16 sq ft, directional signs, political signs other than billboards, government signs, house/building nameplates, and several other listed categories
- All signs must conform to the structural design requirements of the International Building Code (IBC) and companion documents (LDC Sec. 36-6(a))
- Freestanding sign permit applications for signs exceeding 20 feet in height (measured from ground level) must be accompanied by an engineer's design drawing showing structural calculations, stamped by a New Mexico-licensed engineer (LDC Sec. 36-6(b))
- Illuminated signs require a separate electrical permit in addition to the sign permit
- Rebuilding a nonconforming billboard to meet current size/height/configuration/support requirements still requires a sign permit (LDC Sec. 36-8(d))
- No sign may be placed on any property without the written consent of the owner or the owner's authorized agent (LDC Sec. 36-11(h))
- Apply online through the City of Las Cruces Citizen Portal (Accela)
Required documents
- RequiredSign Permit ApplicationSubmitted online through the City of Las Cruces Citizen Portal (Accela)
- RequiredSite PlanShowing the location, setback, and dimensions of the proposed sign(s)
- OptionalEngineer-Stamped Structural DrawingRequired only for freestanding signs exceeding 20 feet in height, per LDC Sec. 36-6(b); must show structural calculations and be stamped by a New Mexico-licensed engineer
- OptionalElectrical Permit ApplicationRequired separately, in addition to the sign permit, only if the sign is illuminated
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Attached Sign — New or Alteration | $50.00 | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees, Sign Permit Fee section |
| Attached Sign — Face Change (existing sign cabinet) | $0.00 | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees |
| Pole Sign — New or Alteration | $80.00 | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees |
| Pole Sign — Face Change | $0.00 | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees |
| Monument Sign — New or Alteration | $110.00 | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees |
| Monument Sign — Face Change | $0.00 | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees |
| Site Plan with Multiple Signs | $270.00 | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees |
| Billboards — New or Alteration | $280.00 | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees |
| Real Estate or Construction Signs | $0.00 | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees; consistent with the LDC Sec. 36-9(b) exemption for real estate signs and construction/renovation signs not exceeding 16 sq ft, which do not require a permit at all |
| Electrical Permit for Illuminated Signs (Commercial Electrical Permit Fees, Miscellaneous Inspection Work — Signs) | $75.00 | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees, Electrical Permit Fees section; billed as a separate electrical permit in addition to the sign permit fee for any illuminated sign |
Fire Sprinkler & Fire Alarm Systems Permit
Required for installation, alteration, or tenant-improvement modification of automatic fire sprinkler systems, fire alarm systems, fire pumps, and commercial kitchen hood suppression systems in Las Cruces. Plan review is performed by the Las Cruces Fire Department's Fire Prevention Division (Automatic Fire Sprinkler Plan Review and Testing; Fire Alarm Plan Review and Testing) as part of the Community Development Department's One Stop Shop 'Fire Code Review' function, against the 2021 International Fire Code (IFC) — the Department states 'Fire plan submittals must be submitted utilizing the 2021 International Fire Code (IFC).' The Fire Prevention Division's public page does not itemize a fire-system-specific application checklist beyond the services listed, so the documents/inspections below reflect standard IFC/NFPA-referenced acceptance-testing practice for these system types rather than a city-published permit-specific checklist; the fee figures and code edition themselves are directly sourced and confirmed.
Reviewed 2026-07-22 · Source
Requirements
- Required for new automatic fire sprinkler systems, fire-sprinkler tenant improvements, fire pumps, commercial fire alarm systems, and commercial kitchen hood suppression systems
- Plan review performed by the Las Cruces Fire Department Fire Prevention Division, reviewed against the 2021 International Fire Code (IFC)
- Fee for new sprinkler systems and tenant-improvement sprinkler systems is tiered by the number of sprinkler heads and includes one hydraulic calculation; additional hydraulic calculations are billed separately at $40.00 each
- Fee for commercial fire alarm systems is tiered by the number of alarm devices
- A Public Safety Impact Fee (PSIF) may be added to the associated commercial building permit based on the outcome of Fire Review, per the City's Commercial Construction Process guide
- Apply online through the City of Las Cruces Citizen Portal (Accela), typically alongside the associated commercial or tenant-improvement building permit
Required documents
- RequiredFire Sprinkler / Fire Alarm System Permit ApplicationSubmitted online through the City of Las Cruces Citizen Portal (Accela)
- RequiredConstruction Drawings / System PlansSprinkler layout, alarm device locations, and riser diagrams, uploaded per the City's electronic plan review process
- RequiredHydraulic CalculationsRequired for new or altered sprinkler systems; one calculation is included in the base fee, additional calculations are billed at $40.00 each
- RequiredSigned Contract Between Permittee and Property OwnerWith proof of ownership, per the general commercial permit submittal requirements
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| New Fire Sprinkler System (Water and Chemical) — 1-15 Heads | $160.00 | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees, Fire Systems Permit Fees section; includes one hydraulic calculation |
| New Fire Sprinkler System — 16-75 Heads | $320.00 | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees |
| New Fire Sprinkler System — 76-100 Heads | $480.00 | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees |
| New Fire Sprinkler System — 101-200 Heads | $640.00 | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees |
| New Fire Sprinkler System — Each Additional 100 Heads | $200.00 | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees |
| Tenant Improvement Fire Sprinkler — 1-15 Heads | $120.00 | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees; includes one hydraulic calculation |
| Tenant Improvement Fire Sprinkler — 16-75 Heads | $240.00 | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees |
| Tenant Improvement Fire Sprinkler — 76-100 Heads | $320.00 | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees |
| Tenant Improvement Fire Sprinkler — 101-200 Heads | $480.00 | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees |
| Tenant Improvement Fire Sprinkler — Each Additional 100 Heads | $200.00 | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees |
| Additional Hydraulic Calculation | $40.00 | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees, Additional Fire Sprinkler Charges |
| Chemical, Dry, Foam, or Pre-Action Sprinkler Systems (additional charge) | $40.00 | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees, Additional Fire Sprinkler Charges |
| Fire Pump Inspection — Diesel | $160.00 | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees |
| Fire Pump Inspection — Electric | $80.00 | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees |
| Commercial Fire Alarm — 1-5 Devices | $160.00 | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees |
| Commercial Fire Alarm — 6-20 Devices | $320.00 | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees |
| Commercial Fire Alarm — Each Additional 20 Devices | $160.00 | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees |
| Commercial Hood Suppression System (all hood systems) | $80.00 | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees, Commercial Hoods section |
| Fire After-Hours Inspection | $60.00/hour, 2-hour minimum | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees, Fire After Hour Inspections |
Change of Occupancy Permit (Change of Use / Certificate of Occupancy)
VerifiedRequired when the use classification of an existing commercial building or tenant space changes in Las Cruces. The City calls this a 'Change of Occupancy Fee' for the change-of-use analysis, billed at one of two tiers depending on whether a site inspection is needed. A Certificate of Occupancy (CO) is issued on completion of a change of occupancy or new construction project; a Temporary Certificate of Occupancy (TCO) or a same-day CO are also available as separate, related products.
Verified 2026-07-22 · Source
Requirements
- Required when the use classification of an existing building or tenant space changes (change of occupancy), triggering a change-of-use analysis by Community Development Building and Development Services
- Billed at one of two flat fee tiers depending on whether a site inspection is required: $45.00 with no inspection required, or $100.00 with inspection
- This fee may be credited to the Building Permit Fee if a full permit application and issuance occur within 90 days of the change-of-occupancy request
- A Temporary Certificate of Occupancy (TCO) is available by formal written request when Safety & ADA issues have been satisfied; fee is the greater of $150.00 or 25% of the building permit fee per the Schedule of Fees (the City's Commercial Construction Process guide separately summarizes the TCO fee as 25% of the permit fee)
- A Same Day Certificate of Occupancy is available for $150.00 if all required inspections are completed and logged by 12 pm; the Certificate of Occupancy will be issued by 5 pm that day
- Apply through the City of Las Cruces Citizen Portal (Accela) or in person at the Permitting Counter, 700 N. Main St., Suite 1100
Required documents
- RequiredChange of Occupancy / Change of Use RequestSubmitted through the City of Las Cruces Citizen Portal (Accela) or at the Permitting Counter
- OptionalTemporary Certificate of Occupancy RequestA formal written request, required only if requesting a TCO rather than (or ahead of) a final Certificate of Occupancy
- OptionalSigned Contract Between Permittee and Property OwnerWith proof of ownership, required only if the change of occupancy is tied to an associated building permit application
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Change of Occupancy Fee — No Inspection Required | $45.00 | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees, Other Building Permit Fees section: 'This fee is for the change of use analysis and is due at the time of the request. This fee may be credited to the Building Permit Fee if the permit application and issuance occur within ninety days.' |
| Change of Occupancy Fee — With Inspection | $100.00 | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees |
| Temporary Certificate of Occupancy (TCO) Fee | Greater of $150.00 or 25% of the building permit fee | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees. The Commercial Construction Process guide separately states the TCO fee as '25% of the permit fee' without the $150 floor; the Schedule of Fees is the more detailed and authoritative figure. |
| Same Day Certificate of Occupancy | $150.00 | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees. Only available if all inspections are completed and logged by 12 pm; the Certificate of Occupancy will be issued by 5 pm. |
Commercial Building Permit (New Construction, Addition, Shell)
VerifiedRequired for new commercial construction, commercial additions, and shell buildings in Las Cruces. The City of Las Cruces runs its own certified local building program (Community Development Department — Building and Development Services, One Stop Shop) rather than routing permits through the state Construction Industries Division field-office model, per NMSA 1978 § 60-13-41(D)-(F). Plans are reviewed against the 2021 New Mexico Commercial Building Code (2021 IBC as adopted by CID), the 2021 New Mexico Energy Conservation Code, and 2017 ICC/ANSI A117.1 for accessibility. The permit fee is valuation-based: the building official determines valuation from the City's adopted Valuation Table (February 2020 ICC Building Valuation Data, square-foot cost by occupancy group and construction type), adjusted by a scope modifier (New 100%, Addition 100%, Shell 75%) and an 88% local area modifier, then run through the City's Fee Table.
Verified 2026-08-01 · Source
Requirements
- Building permit required for commercial new construction, additions, and alterations; electrical, mechanical, and plumbing sub-contractor permits and fees are required when associated with the general permit
- A pre-submittal review meeting is REQUIRED for all commercial projects with a project valuation of $1 million and up (optional below $1 million) — requested via email to inspectionrequest@lascruces.gov before noon on Tuesdays; meetings are in person for one hour, 9:00 am to noon, in conference room 1158 every Tuesday
- Drawings must be at least 90% complete for each discipline at the pre-submittal review or the meeting is cancelled and must be re-requested
- Submittal contents are governed by Las Cruces Municipal Code Sec. 30-274 (Submittal requirements)
- Apply through the City of Las Cruces Citizen Portal (Accela); after paying for the permit record application, an email invitation is sent from the City's electronic plan review software, ProjectDox, where construction drawings are uploaded
- All drawings must be uploaded as single-page PDF files in landscape orientation, each named to match the sheet label on the plans (e.g., Cover Sheet, Site Plan, C1.0, A1.0, S1.0, P1.0, M1.0, E1.0)
- Reviewed concurrently by eleven agencies: Building, Plumbing & Mechanical, Electrical, Planning, Landscaping, Engineering Services, Environmental Compliance, Flood, Traffic, Fire, and Utilities
- A Public Safety Impact Fee (PSIF) will be added based on the approval from Fire Review; a utility estimate is provided prior to issuance of the permit
- Safety and ADA issues must be satisfied before a Temporary Certificate of Occupancy can be issued (2017 ICC/ANSI A117.1 is the adopted accessibility standard)
Required documents
- RequiredBuilding Permit ApplicationSubmitted online through the City of Las Cruces Citizen Portal (Accela), followed by drawing upload in ProjectDox
- RequiredSigned Contract Between Permittee and Property OwnerWith proof of ownership — listed as a required document in the Commercial Construction Process guide
- RequiredSite PlanRequired document per the Commercial Construction Process guide
- RequiredConstruction DrawingsFull construction document set for all disciplines, uploaded to ProjectDox as single-page landscape PDFs named per sheet label; contents per Municipal Code Sec. 30-274
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Commercial Building Permit Fee (valuation-based Fee Table) | Under $2,000: $50; $2,001-$25,000: $50 for the first $2,000 plus $10 per additional $1,000; $25,001-$50,000: $280 for the first $25,000 plus $8 per additional $1,000; $50,001-$100,000: $480 for the first $50,000 plus $7 per additional $1,000; $101,001-$500,000: $830 for the first $100,000 plus $6 per additional $1,000; $500,001-$1,000,000: $3,330 for the first $500,000 plus $5 per additional $1,000; $1,000,001 or more: $5,830 for the first $1,000,000 plus $4 per additional $1,000 | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees (effective February 1, 2023), Fee Table (p. 8). Valuation is determined by the building official using the City's Valuation Table (February 2020 ICC Building Valuation Data, p. 9), adjusted by the scope modifier (New 100%, Addition 100%, Shell 75%) and the 88% local area modifier. Fee is due at time of permit issuance and is tripled on permits for work started or completed without an approved permit. |
| Plan Check Fee | First 25% of the building permit fee | Due at time of application (when plans are submitted); non-refundable. The remaining permit fee can be paid at submittal or before issuance. City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees and Commercial Construction Process guide. |
| Technology Fee — Commercial New, Alteration and Addition | Greater of $100 or 5% of the permit fee | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees, Administrative Fees section; also restated in the Commercial Construction Process guide |
| Public Safety Impact Fee (PSIF) | Varies — added based on the approval from Fire Review | Commercial Construction Process guide: 'PSIF will be added based on the approval from Fire Review.' No fixed amount is published in the 2023 Schedule of Fees. |
| Expedited Permitting | $1,000 in addition to the permit and plan check fee | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees; available on request |
| Temporary Certificate of Occupancy (TCO) | Greater of $150.00 or 25% of the building permit fee | Formal written request required; Safety & ADA issues must be satisfied prior to issuance. Schedule of Fees states the greater-of formula; the Commercial Construction Process guide summarizes it as 25% of the permit fee. |
Commercial Tenant Improvement / Alteration Permit
VerifiedRequired for alterations, remodels, and tenant improvements (TI) within existing commercial buildings in Las Cruces. This is a genuinely distinct track from new commercial construction in the City's own fee schedule: the Fee Table's scope-modifier table lists 'Alteration/TI/Remodel' at 50% of value (versus 100% for New), with the footnote 'See International Existing Building Code definition of work area for guidance in how to calculate alteration work areas,' and the Fire Systems fee section carries separate, lower 'Tenant Improvement Fire Sprinkler' tiers. The application, review agencies, timeline tiers, and ProjectDox submittal process are shared with the general commercial track (the City's Commercial Construction Process guide covers 'Commercial New, Alteration, Addition' together), but a TI's valuation — and therefore its fee — is computed at half the ICC square-foot value of the work area.
Verified 2026-08-01 · Source
Requirements
- Building permit required for commercial alterations, remodels, and tenant improvements; electrical, mechanical, and plumbing sub-contractor permits are required when associated with the general permit
- Valuation for fee purposes is calculated using the City's Valuation Table (February 2020 ICC Building Valuation Data) at the 50% Alteration/TI/Remodel scope modifier and the 88% local area modifier, applied to the work area as defined by the International Existing Building Code
- Pre-submittal review meeting required if the project valuation is $1 million or more (the requirement covers Commercial New, Alteration, and Addition alike); optional below $1 million
- Apply through the City of Las Cruces Citizen Portal (Accela), then upload drawings via ProjectDox as single-page landscape PDFs named per sheet label
- Reviewed concurrently by the same eleven agencies as new commercial construction: Building, Plumbing & Mechanical, Electrical, Planning, Landscaping, Engineering Services, Environmental Compliance, Flood, Traffic, Fire, and Utilities
- If the tenant space's use classification changes, a Change of Occupancy analysis is triggered ($45.00 without inspection / $100.00 with inspection), creditable toward the Building Permit Fee if the permit application and issuance occur within 90 days
- Modifications to an existing fire sprinkler system are permitted through the Fire Prevention Division under the dedicated Tenant Improvement Fire Sprinkler fee tiers (starting at $120.00 for 1-15 heads)
- A separate demolition permit is required for any work involving plumbing or electrical demolition; interior non-load-bearing demolition is $50.00 standalone or $0.00 when part of the building permit
Required documents
- RequiredBuilding Permit ApplicationSubmitted online through the City of Las Cruces Citizen Portal (Accela), followed by drawing upload in ProjectDox
- RequiredSigned Contract Between Permittee and Property OwnerWith proof of ownership — required document per the Commercial Construction Process guide
- RequiredSite PlanRequired document per the Commercial Construction Process guide
- RequiredConstruction DrawingsDrawings covering the TI work area (architectural, and structural/MEP disciplines as applicable), uploaded to ProjectDox as single-page landscape PDFs named per sheet label; contents per Municipal Code Sec. 30-274
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Commercial Building Permit Fee — Alteration/TI/Remodel (valuation-based) | Valuation = ICC square-foot value of the work area × 50% (Alteration/TI/Remodel scope modifier) × 88% (local area modifier), then applied to the Fee Table: $50 under $2,000, up to $5,830 for the first $1,000,000 plus $4 per additional $1,000 | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees, Fee Table and scope-modifier table (p. 8): 'Alteration/TI/Remodel* — 50%' with footnote '*See International Existing Building Code definition of work area for guidance in how to calculate alteration work areas.' Fee due at issuance; tripled on work started without an approved permit. |
| Plan Check Fee | First 25% of the building permit fee | Due at time of application; non-refundable. City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees. |
| Technology Fee — Commercial New, Alteration and Addition | Greater of $100 or 5% of the permit fee | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees, Administrative Fees section — the commercial technology fee category explicitly includes Alteration |
| Change of Occupancy Fee (if the use classification changes) | $45.00 with no inspection required; $100.00 with inspection | For the change-of-use analysis; creditable to the Building Permit Fee if permit application and issuance occur within ninety days. City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees, Other Building Permit Fees. |
| Tenant Improvement Fire Sprinkler (if modifying an existing sprinkler system) | $120.00 for 1-15 heads; $240.00 for 16-75 heads; $320.00 for 76-100 heads; $480.00 for 101-200 heads; $200.00 each additional 100 heads | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees, Fire Systems Permit Fees — a dedicated TI sprinkler tier, billed lower than the new-system tiers; includes one hydraulic calculation |
| Demolition — Interior Non-Load Bearing | $50.00 standalone; $0.00 when performed as part of the building permit | City of Las Cruces 2023 Schedule of Fees, Demolition Permit Fee section; a separate demolition permit is required on any work involving plumbing or electrical demolition |
Sources & verification
Verified against official sources. Last reviewed 2026-07-02.
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 Las Cruces building department before you submit. PermitBase is an independent reference and is not affiliated with any government agency.