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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Raton
No building or land in Raton may be used or occupied, and no building or structure may be erected, without a zoning permit from the Planning and Zoning Department. A zoning permit is required for new construction, additions, renovations, change of use, and demolitions. In addition to the local zoning permit, a New Mexico State Building Permit through CID is typically also required for structural work.
- Completed City of Raton zoning permit application (download from city website or request by email/phone)
- Site plan showing property lines, existing and proposed structures, setbacks, and off-street parking
- Construction drawings (floor plans, elevations, building sections) as required by scope
- Floodplain information if applicable (project in or near a FEMA flood zone)
- Structural details if required by the Planning Director
- Contractor CID license number if a licensed contractor is performing the work
- Building code
- Raton adopts New Mexico state building codes as mandated by CID. The 2021 IBC (commercial), 2021 IRC (residential), 2020 NEC (electrical), and related NMAC-amended codes apply. Raton's local code of ordinances may include local amendments: https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/raton/latest/raton_nm/0-0-0-12708
- Permit validity
- Confirm current validity period with the Planning and Zoning Department at (575) 707-0804.
- Owner-builder
- Owner-builder projects within Raton city limits require both a local zoning permit and a CID Homeowner's Permit (see Unincorporated Colfax County section for CID owner-builder rules under 14.5.2.18 NMAC).
- Contractor requirements
- Contractors must hold a valid New Mexico CID license. The city requires the contractor's CID license number on the permit application.
Application process
Typical processing: Routine zoning permit review is typically straightforward for minor projects. Projects requiring Planning and Zoning Commission approval take longer due to the bimonthly meeting schedule. Contact (575) 707-0804 for current processing times.
- 01 Confirm your property is within the Raton city limits. Contact Planning and Zoning at (575) 707-0804 if uncertain.
- 02 Download the zoning permit application from the city's Planning and Zoning permits page or request a copy by calling (575) 707-0804 or emailing griley@cityofraton.com.
- 03 Complete the application and gather required documents, including drawings of the proposed work: site plan, floor plans, elevations, sections, parking plans, and structural details as required by the Planning Director.
- 04 Submit the completed application with required drawings and the non-refundable zoning permit fee to the Planning and Zoning Department by email (griley@cityofraton.com) or in person at City Hall (224 Savage Avenue).
- 05 Await zoning review. The Planning and Zoning Department reviews applications for compliance with the City's Code of Ordinances, including the Zoning Code (Chapter 156). Planning and Zoning Commission review may be required for certain projects (variances, conditional uses, major developments) at meetings held the third Thursday of every other month at 6:00 PM.
- 06 Once zoning is approved, proceed to obtain the New Mexico State Building Permit through CID. The Planning and Zoning Department can provide CID contact information and guidance.
- 07 Post the zoning permit and the CID state building permit on the job site.
- 08 Schedule required building code inspections through CID as required by the state permit.
- 09 Upon completion, obtain the Certificate of Occupancy through CID.
Typical processing time: Routine zoning permit review is typically straightforward for minor projects. Projects requiring Planning and Zoning Commission approval take longer due to the bimonthly meeting schedule. Contact (575) 707-0804 for current processing times.
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- CID statewide toll-free: (877) 243-0979 (phone)
- CID inspection request (online)
Typical sequence: Building code inspections for structural, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical work are conducted by CID state inspectors (not the city), under the state building permit. Zoning/site compliance inspections (setbacks, use compliance) are performed by the City of Raton Planning and Zoning Department. Typical inspection sequence: same as CID residential/commercial sequence (see Unincorporated Colfax County section).
Frequently asked
Common questions about Raton permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Raton, NM? ▸
02 How do I apply for a building permit in Raton, NM? ▸
03 How long does it take to get a building permit in Raton, NM? ▸
04 How do I schedule a building inspection in Raton, NM? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with City of Raton Planning and Zoning Department before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.