Before You Build in Tijeras, NM: Permit & Rule Checklist (2026)

Tijeras Ordinance No. 240 regulates fence and wall construction. Commercial properties require a solid 6-ft fence or barrier on property lines adjoining residential properties for visual screening. Fence materials must not pose health/safety hazards or disrupt rural character.

New Mexico has no shared fence cost statute. Tijeras does not require neighbor consent for fencing on your own property. NM is an open range state (NMSA §77-16-1). The village's rural mountain character means larger lots and more space between homes.

Tijeras requires fence permits per §26-67. Village provides fence permit applications at Village Hall or online. All construction requires Planning and Zoning Commission review. Contact (505) 281-1220 for requirements.

Swimming pools in Tijeras require a village pool permit. NM Residential Code (IRC Ch. 42) barrier requirements apply — pools over 24 inches deep require a barrier. Standard 48-inch minimum barrier height per IBC/IRC. Bernalillo County building standards also apply.

Above-ground pools in Tijeras must comply with NM Residential Code if over 24 inches deep. Village pool permit required per village forms. Barrier height measured from exterior grade. Standard safety requirements apply.

Pool safety in Tijeras follows NM Residential Code and IBC standards. Gates must open outward, be self-closing and self-latching. Village P&Z Commission reviews pool applications. Bernalillo County building inspection services may apply.

Garage conversions in Tijeras require P&Z Commission review per §26-67 since they alter building use. The village's ADU provisions (§26-881) may apply if converting to a dwelling unit. Building code compliance required.

Tijeras Ordinance No. 240 includes Division 9 specifically addressing Detached Accessory Dwelling Units (§26-881). ADU requirements are established in the 2023 comprehensive zoning ordinance. Contact the Village for current ADU application requirements.

Tijeras Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance treats carports as accessory structures. Per the Article VI use table, accessory structures of 450 sq. ft. or smaller without utilities are permissive (P) in residential zones; larger or utility-served structures are designated (D) and need clerk review under Sec. 26-67. Buildings cannot exceed 26 feet in height (Sec. 26-654), and Bernalillo County issues the building permit under Sec. 26-69.

Accessory structures in Tijeras require P&Z Commission approval per §26-67 for any building erection or footprint alteration. The village's rural character on 1+ acre lots provides space for sheds and outbuildings. Setback requirements apply.

Open burning in Tijeras is highly restricted due to wildfire risk in the East Mountains. NMAC 14.10.5 (state open burning rule) applies. Bernalillo County Fire Department enforces. Burn days must be verified; the area frequently under fire restrictions.

Fire pits in Tijeras must comply with International Fire Code as enforced by Bernalillo County Fire Department. The village's location in the Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) means strict fire safety measures. Attended fires only; wood fuel only.

Tijeras water service is regulated under Chapter 24 (Utilities) of the village code. Water conservation is important in the arid East Mountains. The village relies on groundwater. ABCWUA does not serve Tijeras; the village has its own water/sewer system.

Tijeras does not have a specific tree trimming ordinance. The village is in a forested East Mountains setting. Property owners are responsible for maintaining trees on their property. Fire safety vegetation management may be recommended or required in WUI areas.

Tijeras does not have a specific tree removal permit requirement. The rural mountain setting includes pinon, juniper, and ponderosa pine. Building projects must submit site plans showing existing vegetation. Defensible space clearing for fire safety is encouraged.