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Santa Fe, NM Building Safety: Plumbing Permits (2026)

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

Key Facts

Adopted code
2021 NM Plumbing Code (UPC), NMAC 14.8.2
Plumbing/gas permit fee
$50.00 flat issuance
Backwater valve required
on new/replaced sewer connections, § 7-1.8
Rainwater catchment approval
required, § 7-1.9
Swimming pool permit fee
$50.00 each

Summary

Plumbing work in Santa Fe is governed by the 2021 New Mexico Plumbing Code, adopted by reference in Section 7-1.1(A)(10) SFCC 1987, which incorporates and amends the Uniform Plumbing Code and is further modified locally by Sections 7-1.8 and 7-1.9. A plumbing or gas permit costs $50.00 to issue, with fixture-specific fees added under Table 7-1.11-1.

(10)2021 New Mexico Plumbing Code adopted by the state of New Mexico construction industries division (NMAC 14.8.2), as may be amended from time to time, which adopts and amends the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC), and as further amended in Sections 7-1.8 and 7-1.9 SFCC 1987; and

View official code

Full Breakdown

9 SFCC 1987. 9 rewrites UPC Section 1602 to require city approval of rainwater catchment system design, construction and repair. 1(D). 9, enforceable under Sections 1-3 and 14-11 SFCC 1987. 00 for a gas pipe outlet.

Violations & Fines

Installing plumbing, gas piping or a backwater valve out of compliance with the adopted 2021 NM Plumbing Code or its local amendments in Sections 7-1.8 and 7-1.9 is enforceable under Sections 1-3 and 14-11 SFCC 1987 through Section 7-1.1(B). Connecting to the sanitary sewer without the backwater valve required by Section 7-1.8 leaves the property owner solely responsible if sewage backs up, since the city disclaims any obligation to verify the valve remains in working order.

Frequently Asked Questions

What plumbing code does Santa Fe follow?
The 2021 New Mexico Plumbing Code, adopted by reference in Section 7-1.1(A)(10) SFCC 1987. That state code adopts and amends the Uniform Plumbing Code, and Santa Fe layers two further amendments onto it in Sections 7-1.8 and 7-1.9.
Do I need a backwater valve on my sewer line?
Yes, for any new construction connecting to a sanitary sewer and for any replacement or repair of an existing sewer service line. Section 7-1.8 SFCC 1987 requires the valve, makes it the property owner's sole responsibility to maintain, and requires cleanouts through it to be labeled backwater valve downstream.
How much does a Santa Fe plumbing permit cost?
Table 7-1.11-1 lists a $50.00 issuance fee for a commercial or residential plumbing or gas permit, then adds itemized fixture charges, for example $50.00 per swimming pool connection and $5.00 for a water heater or gas appliance.

Sources & Official References

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All Santa Fe rules

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