You are viewing the permanent link for the record currently in effect, published 2026-08-25.
Unincorporated San Juan County building permits
VerifiedUnincorporated San Juan County, New Mexico — as published 2026-08-25.
Verified 2026-07-08 · Source
Codes adopted
Permit types & fees
New Residential Building Permit
VerifiedRequired for new residential construction, additions, and accessory buildings in unincorporated San Juan County. Issued and self-administered directly by the San Juan County Building Division using its own New Residential Permit Application Checklist (rev. 07/19/2023). Covers one- and two-family dwellings, townhouses, and residential accessory structures (detached storage sheds/garages are separately classified as 'Residential Accessory Structures' under the same checklist).
Verified 2026-07-05 · Source
Requirements
- New residential construction, residential addition, or new residential accessory building
- Plans must comply with the 2021 New Mexico Residential Building Code / 2021 IRC and the county's Design Criteria (30 psf ground snow load, 115 mph Category II wind, 30-inch frost depth, ASCE 7-16 seismic)
- Setbacks: 10 feet side and rear, 25 feet front, per the county's published Design Criteria for residential permits
- 2021 IECC Residential Energy Code Compliance Form required with every submittal; in-floor radiant heat piping requires R-5 (1-inch) approved under-slab insulation
- Planning/Zoning approval required only for properties within the City of Aztec, City of Bloomfield, or Town of Kirtland — rural (true unincorporated) areas of San Juan County have no zoning requirements
- Floodplain approval required where applicable
- Confirmation of private sewage disposal (septic) capability from the New Mexico Environment Department, or connection to a sewer system, where applicable
- Homeowners may obtain a Homeowner's Permit to build or alter their own principal residence without a contractor's license
Required documents
- RequiredNew Residential Permit Application ChecklistCounty form (rev. 07/19/2023) — landowner/contractor info, project type (new construction / addition / accessory building), project valuation, signature acknowledgment
- RequiredSite PlanAssigned address, lot/tract dimensions, north arrow and scale, all easements labeled with widths, all structures labeled with distances to property lines and between existing/proposed structures
- RequiredFooting and Foundation PlanInterior footings shown, rebar size and spacing indicated
- RequiredFloor PlanUse of each room/space, windows, doors, interior partitions
- RequiredTypical Load-Bearing Wall Detail or Post-and-Beam Sizing/SpacingStructural wall or post/beam detail
- RequiredRoof and Floor Framing PlanMaterial, size, spacing, span, and engineered truss drawings
- RequiredElevationsFront, side, and rear elevations
- Required2021 IECC Residential Energy Code Compliance FormRequired energy-code compliance documentation for the chosen path
- RequiredRoofing System / Manufacturer SpecificationsManufacturer specification sheet for the proposed roofing system
- OptionalStructural Engineering / Metal Building Manufacturer CertificationRequired if foundation exceeds 40 feet (metal buildings only), or where professional seals are otherwise triggered under 2021 IRC Section 106 (steel stud/structural steel construction, prefabricated structures, wood foundations, retaining walls over 4 ft, second-story additions, alternate construction methods)
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Building Permit Fee (valuation $1.00–$500) | $45 | San Juan County Building Permit Fee Schedule (valuation-scale table published by the Building Division) |
| Building Permit Fee (valuation $501–$2,000) | $45 for the first $500 plus $1.00 for each additional $100 or fraction thereof | San Juan County Building Permit Fee Schedule |
| Building Permit Fee (valuation $2,001–$25,000) | $60 for the first $2,000 plus $10.00 for each additional $1,000 or fraction thereof | San Juan County Building Permit Fee Schedule |
| Building Permit Fee (valuation $25,001–$50,000) | $290 for the first $25,000 plus $8.00 for each additional $1,000 or fraction thereof | San Juan County Building Permit Fee Schedule |
| Building Permit Fee (valuation $50,001–$100,000) | $490 for the first $50,000 plus $6.00 for each additional $1,000 or fraction thereof | San Juan County Building Permit Fee Schedule |
| Building Permit Fee (valuation $100,001 and up) | $790 for the first $100,000 plus $5.00 for each additional $1,000 or fraction thereof | San Juan County Building Permit Fee Schedule |
| Building Plan Review Fee | Project valuation × .0012 | San Juan County Building Department page — 'Building Plan Review Fee: valuation of project x .0012'; charged in addition to the Building Permit Fee for projects requiring an Architect/Engineer seal under NMAC 14.5.2.9/14.5.2.10 |
Electrical Permit
VerifiedRequired for electrical service installation, alteration, and repair in unincorporated San Juan County. Self-administered directly by the San Juan County Building Division using its own Electrical Permit Application (rev. 04/11/2023) — not routed through the New Mexico Construction Industries Division.
Verified 2026-07-05 · Source
Requirements
- New, addition, or remodel electrical work for residential, commercial, mobile home, or RV/MH park service
- Valid New Mexico electrical contractor license (license number and expiration date required on the application)
- One Line Diagram required on any electrical service 200 amps and above
Required documents
- RequiredElectrical Permit ApplicationCounty form (rev. 04/11/2023) — landowner/contractor info, scope of work, service type (permanent/temporary/mobile home), amperage/voltage, fee calculation
- OptionalElectrical Service Engineering Drawings / CalculationsRequired for services 200 amps and above per the county's separate 'Electrical Service Engineering Drawings Required/Calcs' document
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Fee (services under 100 amps) | $60 | San Juan County Electrical Permit Application (rev. 04/11/2023) |
| 100–200 Amp Service | $85 | Electrical Permit Application fee table (tiers: 100A $85, 201-400A $275, 401-600A $375, 601-800A $475, 801-1000A $575, 1001-2000A $800, over 2000A $1,275) |
| MH and RV Parks (multiple meters) | $60 for first meter, $10 each additional meter | Electrical Permit Application fee table |
| Multi-Bank Meters (apartment complex) | $60 for first meter, $10 each additional meter | Electrical Permit Application fee table |
| Temporary Power Pole | $25 each | Electrical Permit Application fee table |
| Feeder and Branch Circuits — Residential | Heated sq ft x $0.03/sq ft | Electrical Permit Application fee table |
| Feeder and Branch Circuits — Commercial | Heated sq ft x $0.06/sq ft | Electrical Permit Application fee table |
| Communication Systems | $25 each | Electrical Permit Application fee table |
| Solar PV Systems | $25/kW or fraction thereof for the first 160 kW, then $5/kW thereafter | Electrical Permit Application fee table |
| Swimming Pool / Wind Generator | $35 each | Electrical Permit Application fee table |
| Miscellaneous | $25/kW or fraction thereof | Electrical Permit Application fee table |
| Administrative Fee | $40 (billed as $25 per inspection on the form, with a $40 minimum notation) | Electrical Permit Application fee table — form shows '#INSPECTIONS $25 PER INSPECTION... $40.00' as the administrative line |
| Reinspection Fee | $75.00 | Electrical Permit Application (rev. 04/11/2023), printed fee assessment notice |
Plumbing Permit
VerifiedRequired for plumbing fixture, water distribution, sewer/drain, gas piping, and water heater work in unincorporated San Juan County. Self-administered directly by the San Juan County Building Division using its own Plumbing Permit Application (rev. 04/11/2023) — not routed through the New Mexico Construction Industries Division.
Verified 2026-07-05 · Source
Requirements
- New, addition, or remodel plumbing work for residential or commercial scopes
- Valid New Mexico plumbing contractor license (license number and expiration date required on the application)
- Pressure test required for DWV (drain-waste-vent) and water distribution work; gas piping requires an LP gas or natural gas designation
Required documents
- RequiredPlumbing Permit ApplicationCounty form (rev. 04/11/2023) — landowner/contractor info, scope of work, fee calculation by fixture/system type
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| DWV and Water Distribution — Residential | Heated sq ft x $0.03/sq ft | San Juan County Plumbing Permit Application (rev. 04/11/2023) |
| DWV and Water Distribution — Commercial | Heated sq ft x $0.06/sq ft | Plumbing Permit Application fee table |
| Backflow Device | $5/ea up to 1 inch; $10/ea 1-3 inch; $15/ea 3 inch and up | Plumbing Permit Application fee table |
| Water Service Line | $10/ea up to 1 inch; $15/ea 1.25 inch and up | Plumbing Permit Application fee table |
| RV/MH Parks — Multiple Water Distribution | $15 for water service plus $2 per additional outlet | Plumbing Permit Application fee table |
| Sewer or Modular Building Drain | $10 each | Plumbing Permit Application fee table |
| RV/MH Parks — Multiple Sewer Branches | $10 for sewer line plus $2 per additional branch | Plumbing Permit Application fee table |
| Gas Piping System (new or replacement) — with yard line | $40 each | Plumbing Permit Application fee table |
| Gas Piping System (new or replacement) — no yard line | $30 each | Plumbing Permit Application fee table |
| Gas Reconnect Test Only (administrative fee) | $35 | Plumbing Permit Application fee table |
| Water Heater | $10 each | Plumbing Permit Application fee table |
| Swimming Pool (plumbing) | Fee-classified under the gas/administrative line items on the form; contact (505) 334-4313 to confirm the specific plumbing fee for pool work | Plumbing Permit Application (rev. 04/11/2023) lists a Swimming Pool line under gas-related fees on the form; the exact standalone plumbing-only pool fee is not broken out separately from the gas reconnect test line on the form as scanned |
| Medical Gas System | Heated sq ft x $0.05/sq ft | Plumbing Permit Application fee table |
| Administrative Fee | $40 | Plumbing Permit Application fee table |
| Reinspection Fee | $75.00 | Plumbing Permit Application (rev. 04/11/2023), printed fee assessment notice |
Mechanical / HVAC Permit
VerifiedRequired for furnace/AC installation or replacement, gas piping, radiant in-floor heat, solar water heating, and ventilation work in unincorporated San Juan County. Self-administered directly by the San Juan County Building Division using its own Mechanical Permit Application (rev. 04/11/2023) — not routed through the New Mexico Construction Industries Division.
Verified 2026-07-05 · Source
Requirements
- New, addition, or remodel mechanical/HVAC work for residential or commercial scopes; appliance changeout and pressure-test scopes also use this application
- Valid New Mexico mechanical contractor license (license number and expiration date required on the application)
- Radiant in-floor heat systems require approved R-5 (1-inch) insulation under-slab, per the Mechanical Permit Application's printed note
Required documents
- RequiredMechanical Permit ApplicationCounty form (rev. 04/11/2023) — landowner/contractor info, scope of work, fee calculation by equipment/system type
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Heating and Cooling Distribution — Residential | Heated sq ft x $0.03/sq ft | San Juan County Mechanical Permit Application (rev. 04/11/2023) |
| Heating and Cooling Distribution — Commercial | Heated sq ft x $0.06/sq ft | Mechanical Permit Application fee table |
| Gas Piping System (new or replacement) — with yard line | $40 each | Mechanical Permit Application fee table |
| Gas Piping System (new or replacement) — without yard line | $30 each | Mechanical Permit Application fee table |
| Reconnect Gas Test (administrative fee charge only) | Administrative fee only, no separate line amount published | Mechanical Permit Application fee table |
| Solar Water Heating System | $10 each | Mechanical Permit Application fee table |
| Heating Unit(s) | System including related equipment/components: $25 each | Mechanical Permit Application fee table |
| Cooling Unit(s) | First unit $10, additional units $5 each | Mechanical Permit Application fee table |
| Combo Unit(s) | First unit $20, additional units $10 each | Mechanical Permit Application fee table |
| Type I Hood | $20 each | Mechanical Permit Application fee table |
| Administrative Fee | $40 | Mechanical Permit Application fee table |
| Reinspection Fee | $75.00 | Mechanical Permit Application (rev. 04/11/2023), printed fee assessment notice |
Roofing / Residing / Windows Permit
VerifiedRequired for re-roofing, exterior residing, and window replacement in unincorporated San Juan County. Self-administered directly by the San Juan County Building Division using its own combined Roofing/Residing/Windows Permit Application.
Verified 2026-07-05 · Source
Requirements
- Re-roofing (roofing type specified on the application), residing of the structure, or window replacement
- Project valuation must be declared on the application
- All work must be inspected; a minimum of 24 hours' notice is required for an inspection
Required documents
- RequiredRoofing/Residing/Windows Permit ApplicationCounty form — landowner/contractor info, project type checkbox (roofing/residing/windows), project valuation, description of work
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Building Permit Fee (valuation-based, same schedule as new residential construction) | $45 minimum ($1-$500 valuation), scaling per the county's general Building Permit Fee Schedule (e.g. $60 for the first $2,000 plus $10.00 per additional $1,000 up to $25,000) | The Roofing/Residing/Windows application requires a declared project valuation but does not publish a separate dedicated fee table of its own — it is priced under the same general Building Permit Fee… Show full citationHideThe Roofing/Residing/Windows application requires a declared project valuation but does not publish a separate dedicated fee table of its own — it is priced under the same general Building Permit Fee Schedule used for other valuation-based residential work, per the county's Building Department page ('Building Permit Fee: valuation of project x .005') and its general valuation-scale table |
Solar PV Permit
VerifiedSan Juan County has adopted the 2012 Uniform Solar Energy Code (IAPMO) alongside its other construction codes, and its Electrical Permit Application publishes a distinct 'Solar PV Systems' fee tier ($25/kW for the first 160 kW, then $5/kW thereafter) separate from its general electrical fee schedule. A standard roof-mounted PV installation is typically covered by this Electrical Permit alone; a separate general construction Building Permit is only additionally required when structural reinforcement of the existing roof is necessary, per statewide New Mexico rule 14.5.2.8(F) NMAC (added dead load over 5 psf, point load over 45 lb, or over 200 lb on a single truss/rafter/joist, as determined by a New Mexico-licensed structural engineer).
Verified 2026-07-20 · Source
Requirements
- Electrical Permit required for the PV interconnection (arrays, inverters, disconnects, point of connection), billed at the county's distinct Solar PV Systems rate — apply via a New Mexico-licensed electrical contractor (license number and expiration date required on the application)
- One Line Diagram required on any electrical service 200 amps and above, per the standard Electrical Permit Application requirements
- A separate general construction Building Permit is required IN ADDITION to the Electrical Permit only if structural reinforcement of the existing roof is necessary, per 14.5.2.8(F)(6) NMAC — i.e., when a PE structural analysis (triggered under 14.5.2.8(F)(5) NMAC by added dead load >5 psf, point load >45 lb, >200 lb on a single truss/rafter/roof joist, a unique mounting design, or over-spanned framing members) concludes reinforcement is needed
- Structural analysis by a New Mexico-licensed professional engineer is required when any of the 14.5.2.8(F)(5) NMAC thresholds are met, even if reinforcement ultimately proves unnecessary
- Manufactured-home roof-mounted solar permits may only be pulled by a contractor licensed and registered with the New Mexico Manufactured Housing Division (a distinct licensing track from the standard electrical contractor license)
- 2021 IECC Residential Energy Code Compliance Form required with residential submittals generally, per the county's New Residential Permit Application Checklist
Required documents
- RequiredSan Juan County Electrical Permit Application (rev. 04/11/2023)Same application form used for other electrical work, with a distinct 'Solar PV Systems' line in its fee table
- OptionalOne Line DiagramRequired for any electrical service 200 amps and above
- OptionalPE Structural Analysis / Building Permit Application (only if a 14.5.2.8(F)(5) NMAC threshold is met)New Mexico-licensed structural engineer's analysis, and a general construction Building Permit if reinforcement is found necessary
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Electrical Permit — Solar PV Systems | $25/kW or fraction thereof for the first 160 kW, then $5/kW thereafter | San Juan County Electrical Permit Application (rev. 04/11/2023), fee table — the same distinct solar line already documented in this jurisdiction's Electrical Permit entry. |
| Administrative Fee (per inspection) | $25 per inspection, $40 minimum | San Juan County Electrical Permit Application (rev. 04/11/2023) — same administrative fee applied to all electrical permits. |
| General construction Building Permit (only if structural reinforcement required per 14.5.2.8(F)(6) NMAC) | Valuation-based per the county's standard Building Permit Fee Schedule, e.g. $45 for $1.00-$500 valuation, scaling up with per-$100/$1,000 increments | San Juan County Building Permit Fee Schedule — same table documented in this jurisdiction's Residential Building Permit entry. Applies only when a PE determines roof reinforcement is necessary. |
| Reinspection Fee | $75.00 | San Juan County Electrical Permit Application (rev. 04/11/2023), printed fee assessment notice. |
EV Charger / EVSE Permit
VerifiedSan Juan County self-administers electrical permitting directly (not routed through the New Mexico Construction Industries Division) and does not publish a distinct EV charger/EVSE fee line item on its Electrical Permit Application (rev. 04/11/2023) fee table. The application's itemized fee table has no dedicated EV charger/EVSE category. The most directly applicable published category for a standalone EVSE circuit added without a new/upgraded electrical service is "FEEDER AND BRANCH CIRCUITS," billed by the structure's heated square footage ($0.03/sq ft residential, $0.06/sq ft commercial); if the installation instead requires a new or upgraded electrical service, the county's tiered "ELECTRIC SERVICE" amperage table applies. (Solar PV and Wind Generator installations use a distinct $25/kW-or-fraction rate, which does not apply to EVSE circuits.) Installation must comply with the adopted 2020 NEC (with 2020 New Mexico Electrical Code amendments).
Verified 2026-07-20 · Source
Requirements
- Electrical Permit required for EV charger/EVSE circuit installation in unincorporated San Juan County, using the county's own Electrical Permit Application (rev. 04/11/2023) — not a New Mexico CID permit
- Valid New Mexico electrical contractor license (license number and expiration date required on the application), unless performing work as an exempt homeowner
- One Line Diagram required if the installation involves a service upgrade of 200 amps or above
- Installation must comply with the adopted 2020 National Electrical Code (NFPA 70) and 2020 New Mexico Electrical Code
- No distinct EV charger/EVSE fee line, expedited timeline, or SolarAPP+-style instant-permitting platform was found published by the county as of the last verification
Required documents
- RequiredElectrical Permit ApplicationCounty form (rev. 04/11/2023) covering EV charger/EVSE circuit installation
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Feeder and Branch Circuits (EVSE circuit added to existing structure, no service upgrade) | Residential: heated square footage of the structure X $0.03/sq ft; Commercial: heated square footage X $0.06/sq ft | San Juan County Electrical Permit Application (rev. Show full citationHideSan Juan County Electrical Permit Application (rev. 04/11/2023), "FEEDER AND BRANCH CIRCUITS" line, per the application's full itemized fee table. Note the distinction between line items: the $25/kW-or-fraction rate is the SOLAR PV SYSTEMS and WIND GENERATOR line, not the "Miscellaneous" line (which is actually $25 per inspection); a standalone EV charger dedicated circuit added without a new/upgraded electrical service is most directly billed under this Feeder and Branch Circuits line, priced by the structure's heated square footage. |
| Electric Service (if the EV charger requires a new or upgraded electrical service) | Under 100 amps: $60 minimum; 100-200 amps: $85; 201-400 amps: $275; 401-600 amps: $375; 601-800 amps: $475; 801-1000 amps: $575; 1001-2000 amps: $800; over 2000 amps: $1,275 | San Juan County Electrical Permit Application (rev. 04/11/2023), "ELECTRIC SERVICE" table -- applies only if the charger installation requires a new service or a service-amperage upgrade rather than a simple added branch circuit. |
| Administrative Fee | $40.00 flat | San Juan County Electrical Permit Application (rev. 04/11/2023) -- applies to all electrical permits regardless of category. |
| Reinspection Fee | $75.00 | San Juan County Electrical Permit Application (rev. 04/11/2023). |
Sign Permit
VerifiedRequired for pole, wall, ground/monument, roof, projecting, canopy, marquee, and combination signs in unincorporated San Juan County. Self-administered directly by the San Juan County Building Division using its own one-page Sign Permit Application. The application form itself carries a printed instruction that a 'CITY OF AZTEC, CITY OF BLOOMFIELD OR TOWN OF KIRTLAND APPLICATION MUST ACCOMPANY THIS FORM' — i.e., a sign located within one of those three municipalities' limits requires that municipality's own separate sign/zoning application submitted alongside this county form (consistent with this jurisdiction's documented pattern that Aztec, Bloomfield, and Kirtland retain their own separate Planning & Zoning functions even though they contract building permitting to the County). A sign in the true rural unincorporated county (no zoning) uses this county form alone.
Verified 2026-07-22 · Source
Requirements
- New sign installation or sign alteration of any type: pole, wall, ground/monument, roof, projecting, canopy, marquee, or a specified combination
- If the sign is located within the City of Aztec, City of Bloomfield, or Town of Kirtland, that municipality's own sign/zoning application must accompany this county form, per the form's own printed instruction; rural unincorporated areas outside those town/city limits have no zoning requirement and use this county form alone
- Sign type, height (ft), area (sq ft), and combustible vs. noncombustible construction must be declared on the application
- Project valuation must be declared on the application
- Applicant must indicate whether electrical is required (YES/NO checkbox); if YES, a separate Electrical Permit Application (and its own fee) is required for the sign's electrical connection
- A site plan showing the proposed sign location is required (dedicated site plan block on the form)
- Contractor name, license number, and license expiration date required if a licensed contractor performs the work
Required documents
- RequiredSign Permit ApplicationOne-page County form — property owner/business/contractor info, sign type checkbox (pole/wall/ground-monument/roof/projecting/canopy/marquee/combination), height, combustible/noncombustible, area, project valuation, site plan block, Electrical Required Y/N checkbox
- OptionalCity of Aztec / City of Bloomfield / Town of Kirtland Sign or Zoning ApplicationMust accompany this county form only if the proposed sign is located within one of these three municipalities' limits, per the county form's own printed instruction; not required for a sign in the true rural unincorporated county
- OptionalElectrical Permit ApplicationRequired separately, using the county's standard Electrical Permit Application, if 'Electrical Required' is checked YES on the Sign Permit Application
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Building Permit Fee (valuation-based, general schedule) | $45 minimum ($1-$500 valuation), scaling per the county's general Building Permit Fee Schedule (e.g. $60 for the first $2,000 plus $10.00 per additional $1,000 up to $25,000) | The Sign Permit Application requires a declared project valuation but does not publish a separate dedicated fee table of its own — like the Roofing/Residing/Windows Permit in this jurisdiction, it is… Show full citationHideThe Sign Permit Application requires a declared project valuation but does not publish a separate dedicated fee table of its own — like the Roofing/Residing/Windows Permit in this jurisdiction, it is priced under the same general Building Permit Fee Schedule used for other valuation-based work, per the county's Building Department page ('Building Permit Fee: valuation of project x .005') and its general valuation-scale table |
| Electrical Permit fee (if 'Electrical Required' is checked YES) | Most likely billed under the standard Electrical Permit Application's 'Communication Systems' ($25 each) or 'Miscellaneous' ($25/kW or fraction thereof) line, plus the standard $40 Administrative Fee | The Electrical Permit Application's own fee table (documented in this jurisdiction's Electrical Permit entry) has no line item explicitly labeled 'sign' or 'illuminated sign' — call (505) 334-4313 to… Show full citationHideThe Electrical Permit Application's own fee table (documented in this jurisdiction's Electrical Permit entry) has no line item explicitly labeled 'sign' or 'illuminated sign' — call (505) 334-4313 to confirm which line applies to a given sign's electrical scope before applying; not invented, flagged as an honest ambiguity |
Fire Sprinkler & Fire Alarm Permit
VerifiedAdministered by the San Juan County Fire Department / Fire Marshal's Office, a division of San Juan County Fire & Rescue and a separate administering office from the Community Development Building Division that handles building, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical permitting here. Plan review and permit fees for automatic fire sprinkler systems, fire alarm systems, special extinguishing systems, standpipe systems, and commercial cooking hood suppression systems are billed per a dedicated fee schedule approved by the San Juan County Commission on June 6, 2011 and still published by the Fire Marshal's Office. Systems must comply with the 2021 International Fire Code adopted county-wide (San Juan County Building Department Construction Codes list), which incorporates NFPA 13/13D/13R for sprinkler design and NFPA 72 for fire alarm design by reference. This is distinct from, and in addition to, the Building Division's own Commercial Buildings Permit Application, which separately lists a 'Fire Department: Applicable to Commercial Construction Only' inspection among its required inspections and requires fire hydrant locations on the commercial site plan — expect the two offices' processes to run in parallel on a commercial project that includes fire protection systems. The Fire Marshal's Office's other published services (public education, Life Fire Safety inspections, fire investigations, smoke detector installs) are oriented toward existing-occupancy life safety rather than new construction, but its fee document itemizes new-system plan review and permit fees for sprinkler, alarm, and suppression work, so this is a real, distinct permit product rather than something folded into the Building Division's process.
Verified 2026-07-22 · Source
Requirements
- New installation, alteration, or extension of an automatic fire sprinkler system, fire alarm system, special extinguishing system, standpipe system, or commercial cooking hood suppression system within San Juan County Fire & Rescue's service area (unincorporated county plus Aztec, Bloomfield, and Kirtland by the same service arrangement documented for the Building Division)
- Plans must be submitted to the County Fire Department for plan review, separately from (and in addition to) the Building Division's Commercial Buildings Permit plan review for the same project
- A $40.00 Administration Fee applies to all Fire Department inspections, permits, and plan reviews
- The initial Plan Review fee includes one resubmittal at no extra charge; any further resubmittal is billed again at the same rate
- Systems must comply with the adopted 2021 International Fire Code (San Juan County Building Department Construction Codes list), which incorporates NFPA 13/13D/13R (sprinkler design) and NFPA 72 (fire alarm design) by reference
- A 'Fire Department' inspection is a required inspection specific to commercial construction, per the Building Division's own published Required Inspections list, in addition to the Fire Department's own post-installation inspection under its fee schedule
Required documents
- RequiredFire Department Inspection / Permit / Plan Review Fee WorksheetSan Juan County Fire Department's own worksheet (business name, address, date of inspection/review, inspector signature, total due) used to calculate and collect the Administration Fee, Plan Review Fee, and system-specific plan fees
- RequiredCommercial Buildings Permit Application (Building Division)The Building Division's own commercial site plan (submitted with the Commercial Buildings Permit Application) must show fire hydrant locations, since fire protection systems are installed as part of an otherwise-permitted commercial project
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Administration Fee (all Fire Department inspections, permits, plan reviews) | $40.00 | San Juan County Fire Department Inspection/Permit/Plan Review Fee Schedule, approved by the San Juan County Commission June 6, 2011 |
| Plan Review Fee — Initial Submittal | $100.00 (includes 1 resubmittal) | San Juan County Fire Department fee schedule |
| Plan Review Fee — Resubmittal (beyond the one included with initial submittal) | $100.00 | San Juan County Fire Department fee schedule |
| Automatic Sprinkler System Plan Fee | 0-10,000 sq ft: $75.00; 10,001-52,000 sq ft: $125.00; each additional 52,000 sq ft or fraction thereof: $125.00 | San Juan County Fire Department fee schedule |
| Fire Alarm System Plan Fee | 0-10,000 sq ft: $75.00; 10,000-25,000 sq ft: $125.00; each additional 25,000 sq ft or fraction thereof: $125.00 | San Juan County Fire Department fee schedule |
| Special Extinguishing System Plan Fee | 0-5,000 sq ft: $50.00; each additional 5,000 sq ft or fraction thereof: $50.00 | San Juan County Fire Department fee schedule |
| Stand-Pipe System Plan Fee | 4 outlets: $50.00; each additional outlet: $50.00 | San Juan County Fire Department fee schedule |
| Commercial Cooking Hood Plan Fee | $50.00 per system | San Juan County Fire Department fee schedule |
| Inspection Fee (post-installation, by square footage) | 0-3,000 sq ft: $40.00; 3,001-6,000 sq ft: $80.00; 6,001-9,000 sq ft: $105.00; 9,001-12,000 sq ft: $130.00; over 12,000 sq ft: $155.00 | San Juan County Fire Department fee schedule |
| Re-Inspection Fee | $75.00 | San Juan County Fire Department fee schedule — the initial inspection already includes one re-inspection |
Change of Occupancy / Certificate of Occupancy
VerifiedSan Juan County does not publish a standalone 'Change of Use' or 'Certificate of Occupancy' permit application separate from its regular Building Permit applications. A Certificate of Occupancy (C/O) is required before any building or premises is used or occupied, and before occupancy under a different classification than shown on an existing C/O, per the statewide baseline at 14.5.3.13 NMAC (Certificates of Occupancy or Final Inspection) and per the county's New Residential Permit Application Checklist, which states that a C/O is required 'before any building/structure is used or occupied, and before any change in occupancy classification' (also recorded in the local amendments). A true change of occupancy classification without new construction is processed through the same Commercial Buildings Permit Application used for new commercial construction, additions, and alterations — marked 'Alteration to Commercial' or 'Other' — rather than through any separate 'change of use' product. The Building Division's Plan Review Requirements language states that contract-price valuation applies only to alterations/repairs 'not requiring a change of occupancy classification,' which implies, without stating outright, that ICC Building Valuation Data (BVD) — the same method used for new construction — would govern valuation when a change of occupancy classification IS involved. Confirm the valuation basis with the Building Division before pricing that work.
Verified 2026-07-22 · Source
Requirements
- No standalone Change-of-Use or standalone Certificate of Occupancy application exists in this jurisdiction; use the Commercial Buildings Permit Application (checking 'Alteration to Commercial' or 'Other') for any project changing a building's occupancy classification
- A Certificate of Occupancy (or an approved Final Inspection) is required before any building/structure is used or occupied, and before occupancy under a different classification than shown on the existing C/O, per 14.5.3.13 NMAC and the county's own New Residential Permit Application Checklist
- All required trade inspections (building, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, and the Fire Department inspection for commercial projects) must be approved before the Building Final inspection and C/O can be issued
- Planning/Zoning approval is required only if the property is within the City of Aztec, City of Bloomfield, or Town of Kirtland — rural unincorporated county has no zoning requirement, though the Building Division's own C/O/inspection requirement still applies regardless of zoning status
- Where a change of occupancy classification is involved (rather than a simple alteration/repair not changing occupancy classification), project valuation is calculated using ICC Building Valuation Data (BVD) rather than the contract-price method used for non-classification-changing alterations, per the county's own Plan Review Requirements language
Required documents
- RequiredCommercial Buildings Permit Application (rev. 07/31/2023)Check 'Alteration to Commercial' or 'Other' and specify the nature of the occupancy change; this is the same document already fully cataloged under this jurisdiction's Residential/Commercial building permit entries — no separate change-of-use form exists
- RequiredCode StudyClassification of building, type of construction, occupant load, and allowable area — required as part of 'General – ALL Plans Shall Include at Minimum' on the Commercial Buildings Permit Application, and directly relevant to demonstrating the new occupancy classification meets code
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Building Permit Fee (valuation-based; ICC Building Valuation Data used when a change of occupancy classification is involved) | Per the county's general Building Permit Fee Schedule (e.g. $45 for $1.00-$500 valuation, scaling up with per-$100/$1,000 increments) — same tiered schedule documented in this jurisdiction's Residential Building Permit entry | San Juan County Building Department 'Plan Review Requirements' language: project valuations for new buildings/additions use ICC Building Valuation Data (BVD); Show full citationHideSan Juan County Building Department 'Plan Review Requirements' language: project valuations for new buildings/additions use ICC Building Valuation Data (BVD); 'Project costs for alterations and repairs to existing buildings not requiring a change of occupancy classification are derived from the contract price' — implying BVD applies instead when a change of occupancy classification IS involved, since that exclusion is explicitly scoped to non-classification-changing work |
| Building Plan Review Fee | Project valuation × .0012 | San Juan County Building Department page — charged in addition to the Building Permit Fee for projects requiring an Architect/Engineer seal under NMAC 14.5.2.9/14.5.2.10, same fee documented in this jurisdiction's Residential Building Permit entry |
Commercial Building Permit
VerifiedRequired for new commercial construction, additions to commercial buildings, alterations to commercial buildings (including tenant improvements), and other commercial work in unincorporated San Juan County. Issued and self-administered directly by the San Juan County Building Division using its own Commercial Buildings Permit Application (rev. 07/31/2023), published with the county's Building Department page (sjcounty.net). This is NOT a New Mexico Construction Industries Division (CID) permit: CID issues building permits directly only where no local building department operates, and San Juan County runs a full-service local program (plan review, issuance, inspections) whose published scope covers the unincorporated county plus Aztec, Bloomfield, and Kirtland; CID's role is limited to adopting the statewide construction codes the county then enforces. The application's four project-type checkboxes (New Commercial Construction / Addition to Commercial / Alteration to Commercial / Other) are the county's entire commercial intake — tenant improvement is NOT a separate permit type, fee schedule, or timeline (see tips). Reflecting the county's San Juan Basin oil/gas economy, the commercial site-plan checklist carries a requirement found on no other application in this jurisdiction: 'Indicate all gas well locations.'
Verified 2026-08-01 · Source
Requirements
- New commercial construction, addition to commercial, alteration to commercial (including tenant improvements), or other commercial work — all four project types use this single application (rev. 07/31/2023)
- All commercial projects require a licensed contractor per NMAC 14.6.6 — New Mexico's homeowner permit exemption applies only to residential work on the owner's own principal residence, never to commercial construction (contractor license number and expiration date required on the application)
- Plans must comply with the 2021 New Mexico Commercial Building Code / 2021 IBC (plus the full adopted code list printed on the application) and the county's Design Criteria: ground snow load 30 psf, wind Vult 105/115/120 mph for Category I/II/III-IV buildings, frost depth 30 inches, seismic per ASCE 7-16
- One hard set or PDF of drawings minimum 18 x 24 inches or larger, with each PAGE stamped and signed by the professional designer; footing and foundation design by a New Mexico Certified Engineer is required
- Code study required: classification of building, type of construction, occupant load, and allowable area; engineering design loads for floor, snow, and wind
- A prime design professional is required for any project needing multiple professional seals (architectural, structural, mechanical, electrical, surveying); if the project exceeds $600,000 OR total occupant load is greater than 50, seals of multiple professions are REQUIRED; any change of the responsible design professional must be reported in writing within 10 business days
- Electrical: any installation with calculated service capacity over 100 kVA single-phase or over 225 kVA three-phase must be stamped by a New Mexico Certified Electrical Engineer (exception: remote installations such as irrigation pumps)
- Mechanical/plumbing: the AHJ may require a New Mexico-registered PE stamp for mechanical or plumbing work valued at $200,000 or more, or for commercial buildings three stories and higher
- Site plan must show/label: address as assigned by San Juan County, Bloomfield, or Aztec; lot bearings and dimensions; north arrow and scale; all easements with widths; all structures with distances; accessible parking area; site utility locations and tie-ins; fire hydrant locations; and ALL GAS WELL LOCATIONS
- Planning/Zoning approval required only if the property is within the City of Aztec, City of Bloomfield, or Town of Kirtland — rural areas outside city/town jurisdiction have no zoning requirements, per the application's own printed statement
- 2021 New Mexico Commercial Energy Conservation Code compliance designed per NMAC 14.7.6.13; Flood Plain approval required where applicable
- An Addressing Application (Rural Addressing, (505) 334-4314) should be submitted alongside the permit application; a building permit will not be issued without E9-1-1 physical address verification
Required documents
- RequiredCommercial Buildings Permit Application (rev. 07/31/2023)County form — landowner/contractor info, contractor license number and expiration, project type checkbox (New Commercial Construction / Addition to Commercial / Alteration to Commercial / Other), project valuation, signature acknowledgment
- RequiredFull Plan Set (minimum 18 x 24 inches, each page stamped and signed by the professional designer)One hard set or PDF; must be scalable ('MUST be able to use Scale rule on all sheets/details')
- RequiredCode Study and Engineering Design LoadsClassification of building, type of construction, occupant load, allowable area; design loads for floor, snow, and wind
- RequiredSite PlanAssigned address, lot bearings/dimensions, north arrow and scale, easements with widths, all structures with distances, accessible parking, site utility locations and tie-ins, fire hydrant locations, and all gas well locations
- RequiredBuilding/Structural PlansFooting and foundation design by a New Mexico Certified Engineer (required); structural drawings or Metal Building Manufacturer certification letter; floor plan with use of each room; interior and exterior wall sections/details; roof and floor framing (material, size, spacing, span, engineered truss drawings); front/side/rear elevations
- RequiredElectrical, Plumbing, and Mechanical Plan Design CriteriaDesign criteria for all three trade disciplines must be included with the submittal documents for all buildings, per the application's checklist items 7-8
- RequiredAccessibility Detail DrawingsPer ICC/ANSI A117.1-2017 as adopted
- Required2021 NM Commercial Energy Conservation Code Compliance (per NMAC 14.7.6.13)Energy code design documentation, checklist item 11
- OptionalPlanning/Zoning Approval (Aztec, Bloomfield, or Kirtland properties only) and Flood Plain ApprovalZoning sign-off required only within those three municipalities' limits (rural unincorporated county has no zoning); floodplain approval where applicable
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Building Permit Fee | Project valuation x .005 | San Juan County Building Department page, verbatim: 'Building Permit Fee: valuation of project x .005'. Show full citationHideSan Juan County Building Department page, verbatim: 'Building Permit Fee: valuation of project x .005'. Project valuations for new buildings or additions are determined using the latest ICC Building Valuation Data (BVD); project costs for alterations and repairs to existing buildings not requiring a change of occupancy classification are derived from the contract price inclusive of all work performed — both rules published verbatim on the county's Plan Review Requirements section. The Building Division also publishes a stepped valuation-scale table (documented in this jurisdiction's Residential Building Permit entry, e.g. $790 for the first $100,000 plus $5.00 per additional $1,000, which converges to the same 0.5% at commercial-scale valuations). The application itself directs fee questions to (505) 334-4313. |
| Building Plan Review Fee | Project valuation x .0012 | San Juan County Building Department page, verbatim: 'Building Plan Review Fee: valuation of project x .0012' — charged in addition to the Building Permit Fee for all buildings requiring the seal of… Show full citationHideSan Juan County Building Department page, verbatim: 'Building Plan Review Fee: valuation of project x .0012' — charged in addition to the Building Permit Fee for all buildings requiring the seal of an Architect, Engineer, or both per NMAC 14.5.2.9/14.5.2.10 and the Architectural Act 61-15-9 NMSA 1978. Since the commercial application requires every plan page stamped by a professional designer and NM-engineer-designed foundations, commercial projects should budget for this fee as standard. |
| Trade permits (electrical, plumbing, mechanical) — separate | Calculated separately under each trade's own fee schedule | County Building Department page, verbatim: 'Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing permits have their own fee schedule and are calculated separately from the Building Permit Fee.' Commercial trade rates… Show full citationHideCounty Building Department page, verbatim: 'Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing permits have their own fee schedule and are calculated separately from the Building Permit Fee.' Commercial trade rates are documented in this jurisdiction's Electrical/Plumbing/Mechanical entries (e.g. commercial feeder-and-branch-circuit and DWV/water-distribution work at $0.06 per heated sq ft, double the residential rate). |
| Fire Department plan review and inspection fees (projects with fire protection systems) | $40 administration fee + $100 plan review (includes 1 resubmittal) + system plan fees scaled by square footage | Separate San Juan County Fire Department fee schedule, fully documented in this jurisdiction's fire-sprinkler-alarm-permit entry — runs in parallel with, and in addition to, this Building Division permit for commercial projects that include sprinkler/alarm/suppression systems. |
Sources & verification
Verified against official sources. Last reviewed 2026-07-08.
Applications & forms
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 San Juan County building department before you submit. PermitBase is an independent reference and is not affiliated with any government agency.