Skip to main content
CityRuleLookup

Valencia County, NM Building Safety: Green Building Code (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Adopted code
2009 NM Energy Conservation Code, 14.7.6 NMAC
Based on
2009 International Energy Conservation Code
Alternative standard
2009 NM Baled Straw Code, 14.7.5 NMAC
Effective date
July 1, 2011
Standalone green code
none printed in Ch. 150

Summary

Valencia County has no separate green-building ordinance; instead, Valencia County Code § 150.02 adopts the 2009 New Mexico Energy Conservation Code, which adopts and amends the 2009 International Energy Conservation Code under 14.7.6 NMAC, as the county's energy-efficiency standard for new construction. The code took effect July 1, 2011 alongside the county's other adopted building, plumbing, electrical, and mechanical codes.

These county ordinances apply to unincorporated areas of Valencia County. Incorporated cities within the county may have their own rules that take precedence over county-level regulations.

The following code editions are hereby adopted as the Building Codes of Valencia County, with the following effective dates: Code Document Effective Date ... 2009 New Mexico Energy Conservation Code, which adopts and amends the 2009 International Energy Conservation Code, 14.7.6 7-1-2011 NMAC

Full Breakdown

Unincorporated Valencia County does not print a standalone green-building chapter. 6 NMAC. 5 NMAC), an alternative standard for straw-bale construction that functions as the county's other low-impact building option. 03 applied the same 2011 changeover rule to the energy code as to the other trade codes: submittals could use either the 2006 or 2009 model-year codes, not a mix, through June 30, 2011, with only the 2009 codes accepted after July 1, 2011. 6 NMAC.

Violations & Fines

Chapter 150 sets no separate fine for noncompliance with the energy code; §§ 150.01 through 150.04 cover adoption, the 2011 transition, and fee-setting only. Construction that does not meet the adopted 2009 Energy Conservation Code standards will not pass the plan review and inspections required under the fee schedule the Board of County Commissioners sets under § 150.04 and NMSA § 60-13-45, which holds up permit approval and occupancy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Valencia County have a green building code?
Not as a separate chapter. Valencia County Code § 150.02 fills that role by adopting the 2009 New Mexico Energy Conservation Code, based on the 2009 International Energy Conservation Code, as the county's energy-efficiency standard for new construction.
What energy code applies to new construction in unincorporated Valencia County?
The 2009 New Mexico Energy Conservation Code under 14.7.6 NMAC, adopted by § 150.02 effective July 1, 2011, sets insulation, window, and HVAC-efficiency requirements for new building permits countywide.
Can I build with straw-bale construction in Valencia County?
Yes. Section 150.02 also adopts the 2009 New Mexico Non-Load Bearing Baled Straw Construction Building Code under 14.7.5 NMAC as an alternative building standard, effective the same July 1, 2011 date as the energy code.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Valencia County

All Valencia County rules

Compare Valencia County to another location·View the New Mexico building safety overview

Get notified when Green Building Code in Valencia County, NM changes

We'll email you the moment we detect a change in the code. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.

We'll never sell or share your email. One-click unsubscribe in every email.

See something wrong?

Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.