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Albuquerque, NM Building Safety: Electrical Permits (2026)

Some Restrictions

Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified August 2026

Key Facts

Code adopted: 2020 New Mexico Electrical Code
Enforcing office: Building Safety Division, Planning Dept.
Criminal penalty: Up to $500 fine, 90 days jail
Civil fine: $200 to $500 per violation

Summary

Electrical work in Albuquerque must comply with the 2020 New Mexico Electrical Code, adopted citywide as part of the Uniform Construction Codes and enforced by the Building Safety Division.

(L) The 2020 New Mexico Electrical Code as adopted by the Construction Industries Division of the State of New Mexico with an effective date of March 28, 2023; (M) The 2012 New Mexico Electrical Safety Code as adopted by the Construction Industries Division of the State of New Mexico with an effective date of August 1, 2014;

View official code

Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2026 S-95: Current through Ordinance 2026-010, passed 4-6-2026).

Full Breakdown

Revised Ordinances of Albuquerque § 14-1-3 adopts the 2020 New Mexico Electrical Code and the 2012 New Mexico Electrical Safety Code, both as promulgated by the state's Construction Industries Division, as part of the city's Uniform Construction Codes. Under § 14-1-6, the Building Safety Division of the Planning Department has jurisdiction to administer those codes for construction, alteration, moving, demolition, repair, use and occupancy of buildings and building service equipment, meaning wiring, panel changes, and other electrical installations need a permit and inspection through that division before work is legal.

Violations & Fines

Code violations are a misdemeanor: up to a $500 fine and 90 days in jail per day of violation, or an escalating civil fine of $200, $300, then $500 under § 14-1-99.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Albuquerque require a permit for electrical work?

Yes. Electrical installations fall under the city's Uniform Construction Codes, and § 14-1-6 gives the Building Safety Division jurisdiction to administer permits and inspections for that work.

What electrical code does Albuquerque enforce?

The 2020 New Mexico Electrical Code and 2012 New Mexico Electrical Safety Code, both adopted by the state Construction Industries Division and incorporated by § 14-1-3(L)-(M).

Sources & Official References

[1]Revised Ordinances of Albuquerque § 14-1-3

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