How much does a building permit cost in unincorporated Colfax County, NM?

Fees are calculated as: $3.00 per $1,000 of project valuation for the first $15,000 of valuation; $1.00 per $1,000 of project valuation for valuation over $15,000. Example: a $200,000 new home = (15 x $3.00) + (185 x $1.00) = $45 + $185 = $230 permit fee. Plan check fee: 20% of the building permit fee, charged for plan review. If a preliminary plan review is requested, 50% of the combined building permit fee plus review fee is charged in advance..

What work is exempt from building permits in unincorporated Colfax County, NM?

The following work is generally exempt: One-story detached accessory structures (tool sheds, playhouses, similar) with floor area not exceeding 120 square feet; Retaining walls retaining less than 36 inches of unbalanced fill, with total height at or under 6 feet (bottom of footing to top of wall), not supporting a surcharge; Window awnings supported by the exterior wall of a Group R-3 occupancy; Ordinary repair and maintenance work that does not involve structural elements, electrical, plumbing, or mechanical systems; Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, countertops, and similar finish work; Agricultural buildings used exclusively for agricultural purposes on agricultural land (reduced permit requirements; confirm scope with CID). Note: Even when a building permit is not required, trade permits (electrical, plumbing, mechanical) are still required for those systems.

How do I schedule a building inspection in unincorporated Colfax County, NM?

Inspections can be scheduled via: Inspection request page, Albuquerque area: (505) 222-9813, Statewide toll-free: (877) 243-0979. Request inspections at least 48 hours in advance (24 hours minimum; 48+ hours recommended for remote Colfax County sites given CID inspector travel from Santa Fe or Albuquerque)..

County Building Permits

Colfax County, NM - 2026 Building Permit Guide

How to apply for a building permit in unincorporated Colfax County, New Mexico. Permit authority, application steps, fees, and inspection requirements.

New Mexico Updated March 2026

Permit Authority

Ute Park and Miami are small unincorporated communities in Colfax County. They are NOT incorporated municipalities and have no independent local government or permit authority. All building and trade permits for properties in Ute Park, Miami, and similar unincorporated communities in Colfax County are issued by New Mexico CID. Properties in these communities are subject to Colfax County zoning and subdivision ordinances.

Department: New Mexico Construction Industries Division (CID) -- under the Regulation and Licensing Department (RLD)
Address: P.O. Box 25101, Santa Fe, NM 87505 (Santa Fe office; nearest to northeast NM)
Phone: (505) 476-4869
Email: CID.PERMITHELP@rld.nm.gov
Website: https://www.rld.nm.gov/construction-industries/

Online Permit Portal

Open New Mexico ePermits Online

Platform: New Mexico ePermits Online (Accela Citizen Access) • Account required: Yes • Submission: In-person only

Additional resources:

Application Process

Contact Colfax County E-911 / Addressing to obtain a valid site address before applying. Contact asegura@co.colfax.nm.us or call (575) 445-9661.
Verify compliance with Colfax County land use ordinances at co.colfax.nm.us/government/ordinances_new.php.
Download and complete the CID General Building Permit Application or apply online at citizenportal.rld.state.nm.us.
Prepare required construction documents (site plan, construction drawings, energy compliance documentation, and conditional geotechnical data).
Submit application and documents online via ePermits portal or mail/deliver to the nearest CID office.
Pay permit fee at time of application or at issuance per CID instructions.
Await plan review by CID. Staff will contact you if corrections are required.
Respond to correction requests and resubmit revised plans if required.
Once approved and fees are paid, permit is issued. Print and post the permit card on the job site before beginning work.
Schedule required inspections at each construction milestone.
Obtain final inspection and Certificate of Occupancy upon satisfactory completion.

Typical processing time: CID typically processes routine residential permits within 10 to 15 business days; commercial and more complex projects take longer. Remote locations in Colfax County may experience slightly longer inspector travel windows.

Source: New Mexico Construction Industries Division (CID) -- under the Regulation and Licensing Department (RLD)

General Requirements

A building permit is required for new construction, additions, alterations, structural repairs, demolitions, and changes of occupancy. Trade permits (electrical, plumbing, mechanical) are separately required for those scopes of work. Work on barns, agricultural outbuildings, cabins, lodges, and tourist accommodations (including new short-term rental construction) requires a permit. Manufactured home placements in unincorporated areas are handled through CID's Manufactured Housing Division.

Required Documents

Completed CID permit application (General Building Permit Application form)
Site plan: drawn to scale showing property lines, setbacks, utility easements, and proposed structure footprint with dimensions
Construction drawings: floor plans, elevations, building sections, and structural details (foundation, framing) sufficient for code review
Energy compliance documentation (New Mexico Energy Conservation Code, 14.7.6 NMAC)
Homeowner Building Permit Application and affidavit if owner-builder
Soils/geotechnical data for foundations in expansive or questionable soil conditions (at CID's discretion)
Sealed architectural and structural drawings by a NM-licensed architect or engineer (for commercial occupancies and buildings requiring engineering)
Fire protection plans (sprinkler, alarm) where required by occupancy classification
Accessibility (ADA) compliance documentation for public accommodations and commercial construction

Permit validity: Permits expire if construction does not commence within 180 days of issuance, or if work is suspended or abandoned for 180 consecutive days. Extensions may be requested from CID before expiration.
Building code: CID enforces state-adopted building codes per NMAC Title 14, Chapter 5 and 7. Residential: 2021 New Mexico Residential Building Code (14.7.2 NMAC); Commercial: 2021 New Mexico Commercial Building Code (14.7.3 NMAC); Electrical: 2020 NEC (14.7.4 NMAC); Plumbing: 2021 UPC with NM amendments (14.7.5 NMAC); Mechanical: 2021 IMC with NM amendments; Energy Conservation: 2021 NM Energy Conservation Code (14.7.6 NMAC)
Owner-builder: Under 14.5.2.18 NMAC, a homeowner may obtain a Homeowner's Permit for their primary residence (single-family dwelling or appurtenant structures such as private garages, carports, and sheds). Restrictions: only one homeowner permit per 12-month period; permit is for the applicant's primary residence; proof of ownership required; homeowner, not a hired contractor, must perform the work; HVAC and gas piping work requires licensed contractors regardless.
Contractor requirements: All contractors must hold a valid New Mexico CID license. GB-2 (Residential building contractor for structures up to 3 stories) requires 2 years foreman-level experience. GB-98 (General commercial and residential contractor) requires 4 years foreman-level experience (2+ years commercial). Specialty trade licenses required separately for electrical, plumbing, mechanical/HVAC.

Fees

Plan check fee: 20% of the building permit fee, charged for plan review. If a preliminary plan review is requested, 50% of the combined building permit fee plus review fee is charged in advance.
Permit fee formula: $3.00 per $1,000 of project valuation for the first $15,000 of valuation; $1.00 per $1,000 of project valuation for valuation over $15,000. Example: a $200,000 new home = (15 x $3.00) + (185 x $1.00) = $45 + $185 = $230 permit fee
Trade permit fee: Separate fee schedules apply for electrical, plumbing, and mechanical permits. Contact CID at CID.PERMITHELP@rld.nm.gov or (877) 243-0979 for current trade permit fee amounts.
Reinspection fee: Applies when work fails inspection or the site is not ready for the scheduled inspection. Confirm current dollar amount with CID.
Payment note: Payment methods: online via ePermits portal (credit/debit card); in-person at CID office (check, cash, card -- confirm accepted methods with CID before visiting)

Fees change. Verify current amounts at the official fee schedule.

Work That Does NOT Require a Permit

One-story detached accessory structures (tool sheds, playhouses, similar) with floor area not exceeding 120 square feet
Retaining walls retaining less than 36 inches of unbalanced fill, with total height at or under 6 feet (bottom of footing to top of wall), not supporting a surcharge
Window awnings supported by the exterior wall of a Group R-3 occupancy
Ordinary repair and maintenance work that does not involve structural elements, electrical, plumbing, or mechanical systems
Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, countertops, and similar finish work
Agricultural buildings used exclusively for agricultural purposes on agricultural land (reduced permit requirements; confirm scope with CID)

Important: Even when a building permit is not required, trade permits (electrical, plumbing, mechanical) are still required for those systems.

Inspections

How to Schedule

Inspection request page (online)
Albuquerque area: (505) 222-9813 (phone)
Statewide toll-free: (877) 243-0979 (phone)

Scheduling deadline: Request inspections at least 48 hours in advance (24 hours minimum; 48+ hours recommended for remote Colfax County sites given CID inspector travel from Santa Fe or Albuquerque).

Typical inspection sequence: Typical residential inspection sequence: 1) Setback/footing layout inspection (optional pre-pour verification); 2) Foundation/footing inspection; 3) Underground utilities inspection; 4) Framing inspection; 5) Rough electrical, plumbing, and mechanical inspections; 6) Insulation inspection; 7) Final inspection; 8) Certificate of Occupancy issued after satisfactory final inspection. Work must remain exposed (not covered) until the relevant inspection is completed and approved.

Inspector travel from Santa Fe can take 3+ hours round trip. Schedule inspections early in the week and confirm the inspection date with CID directly to avoid delays. Remote lodging-season construction (spring through fall) typically sees higher inspection demand.

Additional Resources

Building code: CID enforces state-adopted building codes per NMAC Title 14, Chapter 5 and 7. Residential: 2021 New Mexico Residential Building Code (14.7.2 NMAC); Commercial: 2021 New Mexico Commercial Building Code (14.7.3 NMAC); Electrical: 2020 NEC (14.7.4 NMAC); Plumbing: 2021 UPC with NM amendments (14.7.5 NMAC); Mechanical: 2021 IMC with NM amendments; Energy Conservation: 2021 NM Energy Conservation Code (14.7.6 NMAC)
Verify contractor license: CID License Lookup
Zoning information: View zoning info
Owner-builder rules: View rules
Apply for CID Construction Industries License
Rules, Laws, and Building Codes Index
License lookup guide: New Mexico Contractor License Requirements
Contract template: New Mexico Homeowner-Contractor Agreement
New Mexico hub: New Mexico Contractor License & Permit Hub

Information on this page was last verified: March 2026. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with the New Mexico Construction Industries Division (CID) -- under the Regulation and Licensing Department (RLD) before applying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Colfax County Building Permit FAQ

Do I need a building permit in unincorporated Colfax County, NM?: A building permit is required for new construction, additions, alterations, structural repairs, demolitions, and changes of occupancy. Trade permits (electrical, plumbing, mechanical) are separately required for those scopes of work. Work on barns, agricultural outbuildings, cabins, lodges, and tourist accommodations (including new short-term rental construction) requires a permit. Manufactured home placements in unincorporated areas are handled through CID's Manufactured Housing Division.
How much does a building permit cost in unincorporated Colfax County, NM?: Fees are calculated as: $3.00 per $1,000 of project valuation for the first $15,000 of valuation; $1.00 per $1,000 of project valuation for valuation over $15,000. Example: a $200,000 new home = (15 x $3.00) + (185 x $1.00) = $45 + $185 = $230 permit fee. Plan check fee: 20% of the building permit fee, charged for plan review. If a preliminary plan review is requested, 50% of the combined building permit fee plus review fee is charged in advance..
How do I apply for a building permit in unincorporated Colfax County, NM?: 1. Contact Colfax County E-911 / Addressing to obtain a valid site address before applying. Contact asegura@co.colfax.nm.us or call (575) 445-9661. 2. Verify compliance with Colfax County land use ordinances at co.colfax.nm.us/government/ordinances_new.php. 3. Download and complete the CID General Building Permit Application or apply online at citizenportal.rld.state.nm.us. 4. Prepare required construction documents (site plan, construction drawings, energy compliance documentation, and conditional geotechnical data). 5. Submit application and documents online via ePermits portal or mail/deliver to the nearest CID office. 6. Pay permit fee at time of application or at issuance per CID instructions. 7. Await plan review by CID. Staff will contact you if corrections are required. 8. Respond to correction requests and resubmit revised plans if required. 9. Once approved and fees are paid, permit is issued. Print and post the permit card on the job site before beginning work. 10. Schedule required inspections at each construction milestone. 11. Obtain final inspection and Certificate of Occupancy upon satisfactory completion.
How long does it take to get a building permit in unincorporated Colfax County, NM?: Typical processing time is CID typically processes routine residential permits within 10 to 15 business days; commercial and more complex projects take longer. Remote locations in Colfax County may experience slightly longer inspector travel windows..
What work is exempt from building permits in unincorporated Colfax County, NM?: The following work is generally exempt: One-story detached accessory structures (tool sheds, playhouses, similar) with floor area not exceeding 120 square feet; Retaining walls retaining less than 36 inches of unbalanced fill, with total height at or under 6 feet (bottom of footing to top of wall), not supporting a surcharge; Window awnings supported by the exterior wall of a Group R-3 occupancy; Ordinary repair and maintenance work that does not involve structural elements, electrical, plumbing, or mechanical systems; Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, countertops, and similar finish work; Agricultural buildings used exclusively for agricultural purposes on agricultural land (reduced permit requirements; confirm scope with CID). Note: Even when a building permit is not required, trade permits (electrical, plumbing, mechanical) are still required for those systems.
How do I schedule a building inspection in unincorporated Colfax County, NM?: Inspections can be scheduled via: Inspection request page, Albuquerque area: (505) 222-9813, Statewide toll-free: (877) 243-0979. Request inspections at least 48 hours in advance (24 hours minimum; 48+ hours recommended for remote Colfax County sites given CID inspector travel from Santa Fe or Albuquerque)..

Need help with your project?

Navigating permits in Unincorporated Communities (Ute Park and Miami) can be complicated.

Jaspector connects you with local experts who can review your scope, verify your contractor, and help you understand what permits your project actually needs.

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Important: This page is an educational resource provided by jaspector.com. It is not legal advice, and it does not substitute for official guidance from the permit authority listed above. Permit requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Always verify current requirements directly with the issuing department before beginning any construction project. Use of this page does not create an attorney-client relationship. Jaspector assumes no liability for any outcomes arising from reliance on this information.

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