Albuquerque charges modest impact fees on residential development under the Impact Fee Ordinance (Chapter 14, Article 19) but casitas typically pay reduced fees as accessory uses. New Mexico Statute 5-8 (Development Fees Act) authorizes impact fees with strict capacity-need findings. Albuquerque Bernalillo County Water Utility Authority charges connection fees only when new service is installed.
Albuquerque has adopted impact fees under Chapter 14, Article 19 of the Code of Ordinances pursuant to New Mexico's Development Fees Act (NMSA 5-8). Impact fees fund roads, drainage, parks, public safety, and library services. Casitas are typically treated as accessory uses with reduced or no impact fees, depending on whether the casita is considered a separate dwelling unit triggering full fees. The current fee schedule varies by zone (the city is divided into impact fee districts). Standard building permit fees apply: zoning verification, building permit (scaled to construction value), plus trade permits for electrical, plumbing, and mechanical. Albuquerque Bernalillo County Water Utility Authority (ABCWUA) charges connection fees only if a new water service or sewer connection is installed. Shared utilities with the primary dwelling avoid these charges. The Casita Rule (NM HB 252, 2023) limits impact fees on casitas of 750 sq ft or less. Historic Preservation Division review applies in designated districts.
Failure to pay required impact fees blocks permit issuance and inspection scheduling. Unpermitted construction triggers IDO Section 14-16-6-1 fines up to $500 per day. New Mexico Development Fees Act allows challenge to improperly assessed fees through administrative appeals. Liens may be filed for unpaid permit fees.
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