Building Permits in Santa Fe County, NM

Check permit requirements for home improvement projects in Santa Fe County. Select a project type below to see local requirements, estimated fees, and how to apply.

70 Permit Rules

28 Project Types

IRC 2021 Building Code

Key Exemptions in Santa Fe County

These projects typically don't require a building permit in Santa Fe County:

NM, interior basement waterproofing (sealants, interior drain tile, sump pump replacement) typically does not require a permit. Exterior excavation and foundation repair do require a building permit.

NM, cosmetic bathroom updates (new tile, paint, vanity replacement in the same location) do not require a permit as long as no plumbing or electrical changes are made.

NM, a small concrete slab (under 200 sq ft, no structure on top) such as a small pad for trash bins or an AC condenser does not require a permit per 2021 NMRC R105.2.

NM, freestanding decks not more than 30 inches above grade are exempt from a building permit under the 2021 New Mexico Residential Building Code (NMRC) Section R105.2. County zoning setbacks still apply, so confirm placement with Santa Fe County Building and Development Services Division before building.

NM, interior demolition of non-structural elements (cabinets, finishes, non-load-bearing walls under 100 sq ft) typically does not require a permit. If walls being removed may be load-bearing, a building permit is required and the inspector should review first.

See all rules by selecting a project type below, or use our free lookup tool for a personalized answer.

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Get a personalized answer

Our lookup tool asks a few questions about your specific project to give you the most accurate answer.

Check Your Project → See Santa Fe County permit costs

Santa Fe County Building Department

NameSanta Fe County Building and Development Services (Growth Management)

Phone(505) 986-6225

WebsiteVisit website

Address240 Grant Avenue, Santa Fe, NM 87501 (mailing PO Box 276, Santa Fe, NM 87504)

HoursBy appointment / pre-application

Nearby Cities in New Mexico

Albuquerque Las Cruces Rio Rancho Santa Fe Roswell Farmington Hobbs Carlsbad

Permit Guides

Read our in-depth guides for common home improvement projects:

Deck Guide Fence Guide Shed Guide Roof Guide Window & Door Guide Bathroom Guide Kitchen Guide Pool Guide Electrical Guide Plumbing Guide HVAC Guide Garage Guide Addition Guide Basement Guide Retaining Wall Guide Solar Guide Patio Guide ADU Guide Driveway Guide Demolition Guide EV Charger Guide Generator Guide Gas Line Guide Water Heater Guide Tree Removal Guide Siding Guide Fireplace Guide Concrete Slab Guide

Disclaimer: Always confirm with your local building department before starting your project. PermitMint provides general guidance, not legal advice.