Solar Energy in New Mexico (2026)
8 rules on the books across New Mexico, 5 cities and counties. Select a rule to read the full details.
Severity: Few Restrictions · Light Restrictions · Some Restrictions · Significant Restrictions · Heavy Restrictions
Panel Permits
Permits required for installing rooftop or ground-mounted solar panels, including electrical inspections and interconnection approvals.
New Mexico: statewide
StatewideFew RestrictionsThe New Mexico Solar Rights Act (NMSA 47-3) declares solar access a property right and limits how counties and…
Read full rule →Las Cruces
Heavy RestrictionsRooftop and ground-mount solar PV in Las Cruces needs both a building permit and an electrical permit from Development…
Read full rule →Albuquerque
Some RestrictionsSolar panel and photovoltaic installations must meet the city's adopted 2012 New Mexico Solar Energy Code, with permits…
Read full rule →Bernalillo County
Some RestrictionsInstalling solar panels in unincorporated Bernalillo County requires a building or electrical permit from the Building…
Read full rule →Sandoval County
Some RestrictionsSandoval County doesn't run a separate solar panel permit program; instead, Section 12(1.1)(F) sets design standards…
Read full rule →Santa Fe
Some RestrictionsSanta Fe requires a building permit before installing solar panels: Section 7-1.1(A)(13) SFCC 1987 adopts the 2012 New…
Read full rule →HOA Restrictions
State and local laws that limit what HOAs can restrict when it comes to solar panel installation, placement, and appearance.
New Mexico: statewide
StatewideFew RestrictionsUnder NMSA 47-3-4, any covenant or restriction effective after July 1, 1978 that effectively prohibits installing or…
Read full rule →Las Cruces
Few RestrictionsNew Mexico's Solar Rights Act protects solar in Las Cruces: HOAs and the city cannot effectively prohibit solar…
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