Bernalillo County R-1 limits building coverage to 40% of lot area. Albuquerque IDO §14-16-2 caps R-1 at 40% and R-A at 30% to preserve the rural character of the North and South Valleys. Impervious surface limits also apply for stormwater management.
Bernalillo County Chapter 74 limits R-1 residential building coverage to 40% of the lot area and A-1 agricultural to 15%, preserving open space in unincorporated areas. Albuquerque's IDO §14-16-2-6 sets a 40% maximum building coverage in R-1, 30% in R-A (Residential-Agricultural), and 50% in R-ML (multi-family low). These calculations include the primary dwelling, accessory structures, and covered patios but exclude open driveways and walkways. Total impervious surface (including driveways and hardscape) is additionally regulated through AMAFCA stormwater requirements — lots exceeding 70% impervious must install on-site stormwater detention. Permeable pavers and gravel driveways may reduce the calculated impervious percentage. The R-A zone's lower limit reflects the agrarian heritage of the Rio Grande valley and preserves acequia-adjacent irrigated lands.
Exceeding coverage: correction order, removal of excess structures or hardscape. Civil penalty $200 to $1,000. AMAFCA stormwater non-compliance: additional penalties and required on-site detention retrofit.
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See how Bernalillo County's lot coverage limits rules stack up against other locations.
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