ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) Permit in Albuquerque (2026)
ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) permit requirements, fees, and process for Albuquerque, NM. Find out if you need a permit and how to apply.
Yes, a ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) permit is required in Albuquerque, NM.
A ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) permit is required in Albuquerque, NM. The City of Albuquerque Development Services handles permit applications for Albuquerque. Below you will find the current thresholds, fees, and process for obtaining a adu (accessory dwelling unit) permit in Albuquerque.
When Is a Permit Required?
When a ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) Permit Is Required in Albuquerque: All ADU construction
Permit Fees
ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) Permit Fees in Albuquerque: $2,000–$7,000 including impact fees. Estimated timeline: 4-8 weeks.
Estimated timeline: 4-8 weeks
How to Get a ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) Permit in Albuquerque
Verify whether your project meets the permit threshold in Albuquerque: All ADU construction.
Prepare your permit application and plans. Contact the City of Albuquerque Development Services at https://www.cabq.gov/planning for required documentation.
Submit your application online at https://permits.cabq.gov/ or in person at the City of Albuquerque Development Services.
Pay the permit fee: $2,000–$7,000 including impact fees.
Wait for plan check approval. Estimated timeline: 4-8 weeks.
Schedule required inspections through https://permits.cabq.gov/. All inspections must pass before project is finalized.
Important: Albuquerque Development Services building permit required. ADUs allowed by right in R-1 zones per IDO. ABCWUA connection fees for new water/sewer service. IDO Section 14-16-6 standards must be met.
City of Albuquerque Development Services
Phone: (505) 924-3946
Website: https://www.cabq.gov/planning
Online Permits: https://permits.cabq.gov/
Hours: Mon-Fri 8:00am-5:00pm
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build an ADU on my Albuquerque property?
Yes. Albuquerque's Integrated Development Ordinance (IDO) allows ADUs by right in R-1 zones — one of the more straightforward ADU approval processes in New Mexico. Detached ADUs are limited to 750 sqft. You need a building permit from Albuquerque Development Services. ABCWUA (water utility) connection fees apply for new utility service. No state-level ADU preemption exists in New Mexico, but Albuquerque's local IDO is supportive of ADU development.
What is the Integrated Development Ordinance (IDO)?
The IDO is Albuquerque's main zoning code, adopted in 2017. It replaced the previous Development Code and combined zoning, subdivision, and development standards into a single document. The IDO introduced by-right ADU allowances in R-1 zones, streamlined approval processes for many projects, and created mixed-use corridor zones along transit routes. The IDO is administered by the Albuquerque Planning Department.
Are short-term rentals (Airbnb) allowed in Albuquerque?
Yes, with an STR license ($150/year). Both owner-occupied and non-owner-occupied STRs are allowed. New Mexico Gross Receipts Tax (GRT) and Bernalillo County Lodgers Tax must be collected on all STR stays. Platforms like Airbnb collect and remit applicable taxes. Noise ordinance and occupancy limits apply. Your license number must appear on all booking platform listings.
How good is solar in Albuquerque?
Excellent. Albuquerque has approximately 310 sunny days per year and sits at 5,312 ft elevation — high altitude increases solar intensity. This makes Albuquerque one of the best solar markets in the US. PNM net metering credits solar generation at retail rate. New Mexico property tax exemption prevents assessment increases for solar installations. No permit is particularly complicated — contact Albuquerque Development Services for the electrical permit process.
Is my property near the Rio Grande bosque?
The Rio Grande bosque (cottonwood riparian forest) runs north-south through central Albuquerque. Properties within the bosque corridor have additional development restrictions — arroyo buffers, riparian setbacks, and floodplain regulations from both the city and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Check the FEMA Flood Map (msc.fema.gov) and the City's GIS mapping at cabq.gov/planning/zoning to determine your property's flood zone and proximity to the bosque.
Does Albuquerque have historic district restrictions?
Yes. Albuquerque has 4 locally designated historic districts: Old Town, Barelas, Huning Highland, and Martineztown-Santa Barbara. If your property is in one of these districts or is a designated landmark, exterior alterations require a Certificate of Appropriateness from the Historic Preservation Commission before building permits are issued. Old Town is particularly significant — a Spanish colonial plaza area founded in 1706 with strict design standards.
Source: Albuquerque Building Code — ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) Requirements. Last verified April 6, 2026. View source