Pool Permits: Albuquerque vs Los Ranchos de Albuquerque
How do pool permits rules compare between Albuquerque, NM and Los Ranchos de Albuquerque, NM?
Albuquerque and Los Ranchos de Albuquerque have similar restriction levels.
Albuquerque, NM
Bernalillo County
A City of Albuquerque building permit is required before constructing a residential swimming pool or spa; the application must include a site plan with property-line and dwelling setbacks, pool dimensions and water capacity, barrier details, and a professional seal for gunite pools, with inspections required throughout construction.
View full Albuquerque rules →Los Ranchos de Albuquerque, NM
Bernalillo County
Bernalillo County requires a building permit for in-ground pools, spas, and above-ground pools over 24 inches deep. Plan review covers setbacks, barriers, GFCI electrical, and Middle Rio Grande Conservancy District water considerations.
View full Los Ranchos de Albuquerque rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Albuquerque | Los Ranchos de Albuquerque |
|---|---|---|
| Permit required | Yes, for in-ground and most permanent pools/spas | - |
| Above-ground exemption | Less than 54 in. deep, 5,000 gal. or less, fully above ground | - |
| Setback shown on plan | 5 feet minimum to property lines and dwelling | - |
| Gunite pools | Require seal of an NM-licensed architect or engineer | - |
| Permit desk | 600 2nd Street NW, 1st floor; Building Safety 505-924-3320 | - |
| Adopted codes | 2015 IRC, 2009 IECC, 2012 ISPSC | - |
| Permit | - | Required for all in-ground pools |
| Above-Ground | - | Permit if >24 inches deep |
| Code | - | 2018 IRC (14.7.3 NMAC) |
| Barrier | - | 48-inch enclosure required |
| Water | - | Covers strongly recommended |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Albuquerque FAQ
Do I need a permit for an above-ground pool?
A prefabricated pool is permit-exempt only if it is less than 54 inches deep, holds no more than 5,000 gallons, and is installed entirely above ground. In-ground pools and larger above-ground pools require a city building permit.
What do I need to submit with my pool permit application?
The city's guide requires a site plan with all dimensions to property lines and the dwelling (5-foot minimum), pool dimensions and gallon capacity, barrier and gate details, ANSI/APSP-7 drain specifications, and an engineer's or architect's seal for gunite pools (or an ICC-ES report for fiberglass).
Where do I get the permit and schedule inspections?
The Permit Desk is on the first floor at 600 2nd Street NW. Inspections are scheduled through Building Safety at 505-924-3320, and your permit number is required for every inspection request.
Los Ranchos de Albuquerque FAQ
Do I need a permit for a small above-ground pool?
If the pool is deeper than 24 inches, yes. Bernalillo County follows the IRC threshold. Inflatable or storable pools under 24 inches are generally exempt.
Are pool covers required in Bernalillo County?
Covers are not mandated but strongly encouraged. Evaporation in the high desert can exceed 6 feet per year, and the Albuquerque Bernalillo County Water Utility Authority recommends covers under its conservation program.
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