Pueblo of Zuni (Trust Land within McKinley County)

Construction on Zuni Pueblo trust land requires tribal permits. Not subject to New Mexico state building codes. Pueblo of Zuni has adopted own standards for construction. Contact tribal government for current applicable standards.

Note: Contact Pueblo of Zuni tribal government directly for information on exempt work or simplified permitting.

Building code

Pueblo of Zuni adopted own standards for construction. Contact tribal government for current applicable standards.

Contractor requirements

Pueblo of Zuni may have Zuni preference requirements for employment and contracting, similar to other tribal nations. Outside contractors should expect to demonstrate compliance with tribal preference policies.

1. 01
   Confirm land status: Verify that parcel is Zuni Pueblo trust land using BIA records or title search. Zuni trust land boundaries distinct from McKinley County fee-simple land and Navajo Nation land.
2. 02
   Contact Pueblo of Zuni tribal government at (505) 782-7000 to identify correct department for construction permits and obtain current requirements, forms, and fees.
3. 03
   Prepare construction documents as directed by tribal permitting office. Design professionals (architects, engineers) typically required for commercial and larger residential projects.
4. 04
   Submit application and documents to tribal permitting office.
5. 05
   Cultural resources review: Pueblo of Zuni has Tribal Historic Preservation Office (THPO) and strong tradition of cultural resource protection. THPO review essential for any ground-disturbing work on Zuni land given extreme density of cultural sites in and around Zuni Pueblo area.
6. 06
   Environmental review: NEPA and tribal environmental review may apply, particularly for federally funded projects.
7. 07
   Await tribal review and approval.
8. 08
   Receive tribal permit. Post on job site.
9. 09
   Schedule and complete tribal inspections.
10. 10
    Receive final tribal approval upon completion.
11. 11
    Utility connections: Zuni Tribal Utility Authority or relevant tribal utility office manages utility connections on Zuni land.

Source: Pueblo of Zuni Tribal Government - Construction Permitting ↗

• (505) 782-7000 (phone)

Typical sequence: Inspections conducted by tribal or federally authorized inspection personnel as directed by tribal permitting office. Contact Pueblo of Zuni for inspection scheduling procedures.