In accordance with the Los Alamos County Development Code, no building or structure regulated by the Code shall be erected, constructed, enlarged, altered, repaired, moved, improved, removed, converted, or demolished unless a separate permit for each building or structure has been obtained from the Community Development Department.
A residential building permit shall not be required for the following:
- Moveable cases, counters, and partitions not over 5'9" high;
- Water tanks on grade of 5,000 gallons or less;
- Concrete pads, walks, and driveways on private residential property;
- Painting, wallpaper, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, counter tops, and similar finish work;
- Temporary motion picture and theater stage sets and scenery;
- Window awnings supported by an exterior wall which do not project more than 54";
- Above ground swimming pools of 5,000 gallons or less;
- Tree houses or other play structures for children.
Unless otherwise exempted, separate plumbing, electrical and mechanical permits will be required for the above items. Such permits are issued by the State of New Mexico.
All building permit plans must meet the 2006 International Codes and the Incorporated County of Los Alamos Code.
Most residential building projects can be completed with an Express building permit. Please check "Express Building Permits" under "Building Permits".
However, if you are building a new residence or an addition, then you will need a regular residential building permit, which can be picked up at 195 East Road, Suite 104, Los Alamos NM 87544 or printed from the links on the right side of the screen.
Two sets of building plans and other documentation, including a surveyed plot plan, will be required with a plan review fee. The plan review fee is 65% of the estimated permit fee, which is calculated based on the valuation of the project.
We will call you when your building permit is ready. Most residential building permits take fifteen business days to process. Don't start construction before obtaining your permit or you will pay double fees and may risk pulling out some of your work for inspection purposes.
Please call us if you are unsure what type of permit you need and/or any questions about your submittal at (505) 662-8055.