Accessory Structures in Tijeras, NM: What Residents Actually Need to Know

If you live in Tijeras or are thinking about moving there, accessory structures are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Tijeras has 4 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of accessory structures, and some of them might surprise you.

Carport Rules

Tijeras Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance treats carports as accessory structures. Per the Article VI use table, accessory structures of 450 sq. ft. or smaller without utilities are permissive (P) in residential zones; larger or utility-served structures are designated (D) and need clerk review under Sec. 26-67. Buildings cannot exceed 26 feet in height (Sec. 26-654), and Bernalillo County issues the building permit under Sec. 26-69.

Key details: Classification: Accessory structure (Sec. 26-9 definition). Permissive Threshold: <= 450 sq. ft. and no utilities (P in R-1, R-2). Designated Threshold: > 450 sq. ft. and/or with utilities (D in R-1, R-2). Village Review Required: Yes - Sec. 26-67 (clerk / P&Z / council). Maximum Height: 26 feet (Sec. 26-654).

Erecting a carport without prior village review and clerk approval violates Sec. 26-67. Building outside zone setbacks, exceeding 26 feet of height (Sec. 26-654), or failing to obtain the Bernalillo County building permit and final inspection under Sec. 26-69 are independent violations enforced through Sec. 26-37 and penalties under Sec. 26-6.

The rules around carport rules in Tijeras lean permissive, but that does not mean anything goes.

Garage Conversions

Garage conversions in Tijeras require P&Z Commission review per §26-67 since they alter building use. The village's ADU provisions (§26-881) may apply if converting to a dwelling unit. Building code compliance required.

Key details: Review: P&Z Commission approval required. ADU Provisions: §26-881 may apply. Building Code: NM residential code compliance. Contact: (505) 281-1220.

Unpermitted conversion: building code enforcement. Must bring to code or restore. Safety violations: immediate correction.

ADU Rules

Tijeras Ordinance No. 240 includes Division 9 specifically addressing Detached Accessory Dwelling Units (§26-881). ADU requirements are established in the 2023 comprehensive zoning ordinance. Contact the Village for current ADU application requirements.

Key details: Ordinance: No. 240, Division 9 (Dec 2023). Section: §26-881 (ADU Requirements). Type: Detached ADUs addressed specifically. Contact: (505) 281-1220 or clerk@tijerasnm.gov.

Unpermitted ADU: standard building code enforcement. May require demolition or legalization. Occupying unpermitted dwelling: code violation.

Shed Rules

Accessory structures in Tijeras require P&Z Commission approval per §26-67 for any building erection or footprint alteration. The village's rural character on 1+ acre lots provides space for sheds and outbuildings. Setback requirements apply.

Key details: Approval: P&Z Commission review required. Lot Size: Minimum 1 acre (R-1). Setbacks: Zone-specific setbacks apply. Code Reference: §26-67.

Unpermitted structure: retroactive permit with penalty. Non-compliant setback: modification or removal.

The Bottom Line

Tijeras's accessory structures rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Tijeras is broadly strict or permissive.

All of the above reflects Tijeras's municipal code as of our last review. If you need specifics on fines, exemptions, or filing requirements, the detailed ordinance pages linked above have the full breakdown.