Bolthole Index

Roosevelt County, New Mexico

Building permits, zoning and septic rules in Roosevelt County, New Mexico

30Index Score / 100
#31 of 33 in New Mexico

Unincorporated Roosevelt County, New Mexico has no county building department; the state Construction Industries Division issues building permits, and covered work generally requires a permit before it begins12. We could not confirm a general county zoning ordinance3. Septic permits go through the New Mexico Environment Department4.

At a glance

Building permit
Required, issued by the state Construction Industries Division (no county building dept.)1
Zoning
Not confirmed — no county zoning ordinance or authority identified3
Septic permits
New Mexico Environment Department, Liquid Waste Program45
Owner-builder
No explicit exemption confirmed for this county6
Septic soils
69.4% of soil has no severe limit for a conventional drain field7
Drought risk
42% of years bring severe drought8
Property tax
0.4% effective rate; ~$593/yr median bill910
Subdivision exemption
35+ acre parcels used agriculturally for 3+ years can be exempt from state subdivision review11

Who to call

Building permits

New Mexico Construction Industries Division (CID) — Albuquerque Office

Statewide building permits and inspections for one- and two-family dwellings in areas without a local building department, including unincorporated Roosevelt County. CID has only three field offices statewide (Albuquerque, Santa Fe, Las Cruces) and no branch in or near Roosevelt County; most applicants use CID's online permitting portal rather than visiting in person.

(505) 222-9800

5500 San Antonio Dr. Suite F, Albuquerque, NM 87109

Online permits →

Septic permits

New Mexico Environment Department, Liquid Waste Program — Clovis Field Office

On-site liquid waste (septic) permits statewide, including Roosevelt County. NMED's contact page does not state which field office is officially assigned to Roosevelt County; Clovis is NMED's nearest Liquid Waste field office to Portales, so call to confirm before you apply.

575-762-3728

[email protected]

100 E Manana, Unit 3, Clovis, NM 88101

Floodplain permits

Roosevelt County Planning / Rural Addressing Department

Rural addressing, county road signage and maps, and the county's point of contact ("floodplain coordinator") for floodplain and flood-map questions. This office does not issue building permits — see the state Construction Industries Division for that.

575.359.2869

1111 W Fir St, Portales, NM 88130

Roads & driveways

Roosevelt County Road Maintenance Department

County road maintenance, and right-of-way/access permits onto county-maintained roads in unincorporated Roosevelt County.

575.356.5942

1500 N. Boston, Portales, NM 88130

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on September 28, 2026.

Do you need a building permit in Roosevelt County, New Mexico?

Roosevelt County has no county building department of its own, so the state's Construction Industries Division enforces New Mexico's building codes and issues permits in unincorporated areas, and a permit is generally required before covered work begins12. New homes fall under the 2021 New Mexico Residential Code12. The state also lists separate residential, commercial, energy, existing-building, electrical, plumbing and mechanical codes13. A handful of small structures are exempt, including one-story detached storage sheds and playhouses up to 120 square feet, fences up to 6 feet, and qualifying detached decks up to 200 square feet that sit no more than 30 inches above grade2. We could not confirm a Roosevelt County owner-builder exemption; ask CID whether you qualify to pull a homeowner permit6.

Who issues building permits in Roosevelt County, and how do you reach them?

Roosevelt County has no county building department, so the state Construction Industries Division (CID) is the building-permit office for unincorporated land1. New Mexico limits local building-code administration to qualifying authorities with permitting, inspection and enforcement capacity14. Applicants can use CID's online permitting portal15. The Albuquerque CID office is at 5500 San Antonio Dr. Suite F, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87109, and its main number is (505) 222-980016. Building-permit fees vary with construction type, square footage, materials and construction cost, so obtain a project-specific figure from CID1718. Roosevelt County Planning/Rural Addressing handles rural addresses, county road signs, maps and floodplain questions rather than ordinary building permits19.

Does Roosevelt County have zoning?

We could not confirm that Roosevelt County has adopted a general zoning ordinance; no zoning authority or ordinance was identified, and the county Planning/Rural Addressing office describes addressing, road-sign and mapping duties319. New Mexico law allows counties to zone territory outside municipal zoning jurisdiction, so incorporated-town rules and any extraterritorial municipal jurisdiction must be checked separately20. An unknown zoning status is not the same as no zoning. Ask Roosevelt County Planning/Rural Addressing whether a parcel has county land-use restrictions, then ask the applicable municipality about any municipal jurisdiction. We also could not confirm county rules for setbacks, minimum dwelling size, minimum lot size or long-term RV occupancy3.

How do septic permits work in Roosevelt County?

Septic systems in Roosevelt County are permitted by the New Mexico Environment Department (NMED), and applications go to a local NMED field office for review421. A permit must issue before a new or modified on-site liquid-waste system is built, and a dwelling cannot be built, altered or moved onto a lot requiring such a system beforehand22. Request the NMED inspection at least 48 hours, or two business days, in advance; do not cover the system before inspection, and wait for the Permit to Operate23. About 69.4% of Roosevelt County soil has no severe limitation for a conventional septic drain field, but the parcel still needs NMED review7. The NMED contact page lists the Clovis field office at 100 E Manana, Unit 3, Clovis, NM 88101, 575-762-3728, but does not identify its county assignment; call first to confirm the correct office5.

Can you live in an RV or tiny home on your land in Roosevelt County?

We could not confirm Roosevelt County's rules for residential RV use on unincorporated land, so ask county Planning/Rural Addressing before buying or moving onto a parcel3. New Mexico allows a tiny house as a single dwelling on a permanent foundation when it provides complete independent living facilities and complies with the residential code and Appendix AQ24. The state definition caps a tiny house at 400 square feet excluding lofts24. A unit on a chassis with a permanent axle is treated as a recreational vehicle while the axle remains; removing the axles and placing the unit on supports or a foundation triggers the permanent-foundation tiny-house requirements24. A manufactured home requires a state installation permit and final inspection, while local placement rules can still apply25.

Building a home in Roosevelt County: the steps, in order

  1. Ask Roosevelt County Planning/Rural Addressing about zoning, floodplain status and the rural address; we could not confirm a general county zoning ordinance319.
  2. Apply to NMED for the septic permit before placing or building a dwelling that needs an on-site system2122.
  3. Apply online to CID for the building permit and obtain a project-specific fee figure1517.
  4. Obtain a New Mexico Department of Transportation access permit before constructing or modifying direct access to a state highway26.
  5. Obtain local Floodplain Administrator approval before developing in a Special Flood Hazard Area27.
  6. Schedule required building inspections, with final trade inspections completed before the final general-construction inspection28.
  7. Give NMED at least 48 hours, or two business days, of notice for the septic inspection and leave the system uncovered23.

What to check before you buy land in Roosevelt County

Water: Roosevelt County sees severe drought in 42% of years and averages only 16.1 inches of precipitation annually, so confirm well depth, water rights and reliability before you commit to a parcel829. Soils: 69.4% of the county's soil has no severe limitation for a conventional septic drain field, but the parcel still needs a site evaluation through NMED7. Terrain: 99.9% of the county's land sits at 15% slope or less, and only 0.1% is wooded, so expect open plains rather than timbered land3031. Subdivision: New Mexico's Subdivision Act generally requires county regulation of land divided into two or more parcels, but a parcel of 35 acres or more used primarily and continuously for agriculture for the preceding three years can qualify for an exemption when the other statutory conditions are met3211. Access: direct access to a state highway needs a New Mexico Department of Transportation permit before construction or modification26. Taxes: Roosevelt County's effective property tax rate is about 0.4%, with a median bill near $593 a year910.

Watch-outs

  • Whether Roosevelt County has adopted a general zoning ordinance is unconfirmed, not settled as "no zoning" — verify directly with the county before assuming any use, setback or RV/tiny-home rule does or doesn't apply to your parcel3.
  • Roosevelt County has no building department; the state Construction Industries Division issues permits with no field office anywhere near the county, so plan on applying through CID's online portal rather than in person16.
  • NMED's contact page does not say which field office is assigned to Roosevelt County; the Clovis office is listed here as the nearest one, but call before applying to confirm it serves the parcel5.

Sources

  1. NM Regulation & Licensing - Construction Industries Division (2026 county census)
  2. Building Permit Guide for Residential Construction (New Mexico statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  3. (2026 county census)
  4. New Mexico Environment Department - Apply for a Septic Permit (2026 county census)
  5. New Mexico Environment Department, Liquid Waste Program — Clovis Field Office (env.nm.gov)
  6. (2026 county census)
  7. Share of soils without severe limits for a conventional septic drain field (USDA SSURGO): Bolthole Index county data
  8. Share of years in severe drought: Bolthole Index county data
  9. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  10. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data
  11. Senate Bill 176 — New Mexico Subdivision Act (New Mexico statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  12. Rules, Laws, and Building Codes (New Mexico statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  13. Rules, Laws, and Building Codes, quoted and re-checked
  14. 14.5.1 NMAC, Construction Industries General Provisions (New Mexico statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  15. Forms and Applications (New Mexico statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  16. New Mexico Construction Industries Division (CID) — Albuquerque Office (rld.nm.gov)
  17. Construction Industries Forms and Applications Fees, quoted and re-checked
  18. Construction Industries Forms and Applications Fees (New Mexico statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  19. Roosevelt County Planning / Rural Addressing Department (rooseveltcounty.com)
  20. Senate Bill 241, Final Version (New Mexico statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  21. Apply for a Permit, quoted and re-checked
  22. 20.7.3.401 NMAC — Permitting; General Requirements (New Mexico statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  23. Apply for a Permit, quoted and re-checked
  24. 14.7.3 NMAC — 2021 New Mexico Residential Building Code (New Mexico statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  25. 14.12.9 NMAC — Inspections (New Mexico statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  26. 18.31.6 NMAC (New Mexico statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  27. Flooding (New Mexico statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  28. Building Permit Guide for Residential Construction (New Mexico statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  29. Annual precipitation: Bolthole Index county data
  30. Share of land at 15% slope or less: Bolthole Index county data
  31. Wooded share of land: Bolthole Index county data
  32. Senate Bill 176 — New Mexico Subdivision Act (New Mexico statewide rule), quoted and re-checked

Written September 28, 2026 from the rules quoted below, each taken from an official source and re-checked by an independent reviewer. This is research, not legal advice: rules change, so confirm with the office before you buy or build.

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County locator

Roosevelt County in New Mexico

30
County map
Roosevelt County highlighted among the New Mexico counties · colored by Index score

How Roosevelt County scores

Seclusion85100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency1296% ev.
Admin Boringness4868% ev.
Durability22100% ev.
Property Autonomy38100% ev.
Carry Cost8696% ev.

Evidence strength: 93%. This reports direct-source completeness and fallback use; it is separate from the score and is not a confidence interval. How it works →

$148kTypical home
0.4%Property tax
$1,039Land / acre
16.1"Annual rain
42% of yrsSevere drought
21.6 / yr (+17.5)Mid-century 100°F days
35.1 daysMid-century dry spell
1.29" (+3.4%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.22×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$2,442Home insurance / yr
1.9% / yrInsurance growth
1.03%Nonrenewal rate
single ZIP shrunk to state medianInsurance basis
110,715People within 2 hr
808Radius comparison (15 mi)
7.7People / sq mi
5.3%Federal land
99.9%Land at 15% slope or less
69.4%Septic soil without severe limits
1,086,715 acWorkable land screen
0.1%Wooded land
0.1 tonsBiomass / forest ac
58.3°FAvg temp

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Answers from the rulebook for Roosevelt County

What the ordinances and state agencies actually say — one answer per question, each quoted from the official source and independently re-checked.

New Mexico rules that apply here

  • Building permitRequired

    Buildings and structures regulated by the New Mexico Residential Code, including residential construction, alterations, repairs, additions, moves, improvements, removals, conversions, and demolitions, and state-administered commercial construction.

    • A permit must be obtained before covered work begins.
    • Residential exceptions include one-story detached accessory buildings used as tool or storage sheds, playhouses, and similar uses not exceeding 120 square feet; fences not over 6 feet high; specified retaining walls; certain water tanks, sidewalks, driveways, finish work, shallow prefabricated pools, playground equipment, window awnings, and detached decks.
    • Unless otherwise exempted, separate plumbing, electrical, and mechanical permits may still be required for otherwise exempted residential work.
    • Commercial applicants must be validly licensed with the appropriate license classification, submit the state building permit application, obtain any required city or county zoning approval, and pay the valuation-based fee before permit issuance.

    residential accessory-building exemption floor area: <= 120 square feet (One-story detached accessory buildings used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses, and similar uses.) · fence exemption height: <= 6 feet · water-tank exemption capacity: <= 5000 gallons (Height-to-diameter or width ratio must not exceed 2:1.) · detached-deck exemption area: <= 200 square feet (Deck must not be more than 30 inches above grade, must not be attached to a dwelling, and must not serve the required exit door.)

    “Except as specified in Section 105.2 IRC, no building or structure regulated by this code shall be erected, constructed, enlarged, altered, repaired, moved, improved, removed, converted, or demolished unless a permit has first been obtained from the building official.”
  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    Commercial construction, alteration, relocation, enlargement, replacement, repair, equipment, use and occupancy, location, removal, and demolition of buildings or structures in New Mexico subject to the jurisdiction of the Construction Industries Division.

    • The 2021 New Mexico Commercial Building Code applies on or after July 14, 2023.
    • The rule does not apply when performed pursuant to a permit for which an application was received by CID before July 14, 2023.
    • Detached one- and two-family dwellings and multiple single-family dwellings (townhouses) not more than three stories high with separate means of egress, and their accessory structures, must comply with the 2021 New Mexico Residential Building Code instead.
    • Existing buildings not subject to the residential code undergoing a change of occupancy, repair, alteration, or addition must comply with either the commercial building code or the existing building code, as applicable.
    • The rule adopts the 2021 International Building Code by reference, as amended by the rule.

    effective date: 2023-07-14 (unless a later date is cited at the end of a section) · adopted reference code: 2021 International Building Code (as amended by 14.7.2 NMAC)

    “14.7.2.5 EFFECTIVE DATE: July, 14, 2023, unless a later date is cited at the end of a section. [...] 14.7.2.8 ADOPTION OF THE 2021 INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE: A. This rule adopts by reference the 2021 International Building Code, as amended by this rule.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Adopted — New Mexico building-code administration applicable statewide, including Roosevelt County where state jurisdiction applies.
      “2021 New Mexico Commercial Building Code NMAC 14.7.2 2021 New Mexico Residential Building Code NMAC 14.7.3”
    • Adopted (with conditions) — Detached one- and two-family dwellings, multiple single-family dwellings (townhouses) not more than three stories high with separate means of egress, and their accessory structures in New Mexico subject to the jurisdiction of the Construction Industries Division.
      “14.7.3.5 EFFECTIVE DATE: July 14, 2023, unless a later date is cited at the end of a section. From the date of publication of this rule in the New Mexico register, until December 14, 2023, permits may be issued under either the previously adopted rule, or this rule. After December 14, 2023, permits may be issued only under this rule. [...] A. This rule adopts by reference the 2021 International Residential Code, as amended by this rule.”
  • InspectionsRequired

    State-administered residential and commercial construction requiring building permits.

    • Residential inspections include foundation, concrete slab or under-floor, frame, weather-resistive barrier, and final inspection.
    • Final electrical, plumbing, and mechanical inspections must occur before the final general construction inspection.
    • The building official or Construction Inspector may require additional inspections to establish compliance with the New Mexico Building Code and other enforced laws.
    • Inspection requests require the permit number, inspection type, requestor contact information, and confirmation that work is complete and the permit is affixed near the front exterior door.
    “REQUIRED INSPECTIONS To request an inspection e-mail us at [email protected] or call 505-222-9813 or 877-243-0979”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • Certificate of occupancyRequired

    A residential home or addition built under a New Mexico homeowner permit in Roosevelt County.

    • The home may not be occupied until the certificate of occupancy is issued.
    • Occupancy before final inspection may prevent issuance of a certificate of occupancy.
    “I understand the law requires I may not occupy my home (or addition to my home) until a Certificate of Occupancy has been issued; by my general construction inspector.”
  • Tiny homesAllowed (with conditions)

    Tiny houses used as single dwelling units with complete independent living facilities and placed on a permanent foundation statewide in New Mexico.

    • The unit must provide permanent provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking, and sanitation.
    • The tiny house must comply with the New Mexico Residential Code and Appendix AQ.
    • Tiny houses constructed in New Mexico or transported into New Mexico must be inspected for compliance with New Mexico Residential Code requirements.
    • A tiny house on a chassis with a permanent axle is treated as a recreational vehicle and must meet recreational-vehicle codes and licensing requirements while the axle remains in place.
    • If axles are removed and the unit is placed on supports or a foundation, it must comply with the code requirements for tiny houses on a permanent foundation.
    • The rule applies to construction, use, and occupancy subject to the jurisdiction of the Construction Industries Division; construction not addressed in the residential code must comply with the New Mexico Commercial Building Code.

    maximum floor area excluding lofts: <= 400 square feet (The definition excludes loft area and excludes recreational vehicles.) · minimum habitable-space and hallway ceiling height: >= 6 feet 8 inches (Loft ceiling heights may be lower.) · minimum bathroom, toilet-room, and kitchen ceiling height: >= 6 feet 4 inches (None stated in the cited passage.)

    “This appendix shall be applicable to tiny houses used as single dwelling units providing complete independent living facilities for one or more persons”
  • Manufactured homesAllowed (with conditions)

    Installation and resulting residential use and occupancy of new or pre-owned manufactured homes statewide in New Mexico, subject to the Manufactured Housing Division's permitting and inspection rules.

    • An installation permit or combined installation and permanent-foundation inspection permit must be obtained before installation.
    • The permit must identify the licensees performing installation work and the consumer's name and address; a map is required when the address is a post-office box or rural route.
    • An unlicensed homeowner working on the homeowner's own principal residential property must perform the work personally or use division-approved licensees, execute the required acknowledgment, and assume responsibility for applicable federal, state, local, code, and inspection requirements.
    • Final inspection must certify that the manufactured home meets the minimum standards for use and occupancy under the act and regulations.
    • Permits are valid for 180 days, subject to possible time extension for weather or re-manufacturing or permanent-foundation inspections.
    • Each new or pre-owned manufactured home installed in New Mexico requires an installation permit.
    • Failure to obtain a permit subjects the homeowner, dealer, or installer to a fine of double the permit fee.
    • Local requirements, codes, and inspections still apply; the cited state rule does not establish local land-use placement or zoning permission.

    installation permit validity: 180 days (A time extension may be granted for weather-related delay or inspections involving a home being re-manufactured or installed on a permanent foundation.) · permit for certain alteration, modification, or repair: 15 USD (Available upon written request and excludes warranty work performed under a previous permit and installation.) · fine for installation without permit: double the permit fee (Applies to the homeowner, dealer, or installer.)

    “inspectors shall certify on the permit, or upon any inspection report, that the manufactured home meets the minimum standards for use and occupancy”
  • Who permits septicState

    On-site liquid waste systems and effluent receiving 5,000 gallons or less per day and not requiring a discharge plan or NPDES permit.

    • 20.7.3 NMAC identifies the New Mexico Environmental Improvement Board as the issuing agency and defines the department as the New Mexico Environment Department.
    • More stringent city or county requirements may also apply.

    maximum regulated flow: <= 5000 gallons per day (Systems requiring a discharge plan under 20.6.2 NMAC or an NPDES permit are outside this part.)

    “20.7.3.1 ISSUING AGENCY: New Mexico Environmental Improvement Board.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
  • Septic permitRequired

    Installation or modification of an on-site liquid waste system, or construction, modification, or transport of a residential or commercial unit onto a lot for which such a system is required, in Roosevelt County.

    • 20.7.3 NMAC applies to on-site liquid waste systems receiving 5,000 gallons or less per day that do not require a discharge plan under 20.6.2 NMAC or an NPDES permit.
    • A permit, including payment of the permit fee, must be obtained before construction of a new system or modification of an existing system.
    • A dwelling or commercial unit may not be constructed, modified, or transported onto a lot requiring an on-site liquid waste system before the department issues the system permit.
    • A permit is not required for graywater discharges or systems designed for graywater discharge that meet 20.7.3.810 NMAC.
    • The application must be submitted to the department field office having jurisdiction, on the department form, with a recorded deed or other recorded description and information reasonably required to establish lot size, boundaries, record date, and ownership, and must be signed by the applicant or authorized representative.
    • A qualified homeowner may install or modify permitted septic tanks and conventional trench or bed disposal fields; other installers generally require the appropriate CID contractor license.
    • Complete and accurate information is required; the department must deny an application that does not meet 20.7.3 NMAC.
    • The system must be installed, operated, and maintained according to the permit and regulations, and final department approval is required before operation or use.
    • A newly constructed or transported dwelling requiring an on-site system may not be occupied until final department approval and, if applicable, an occupancy permit.
    • Other state, city, or county approvals, licenses, or permits may also be required.

    maximum covered design flow: <= 5000 gallons per day (Systems requiring a discharge plan under 20.6.2 NMAC or an NPDES permit are outside 20.7.3 NMAC.)

    “unless that person obtains a permit issued by the department, including payment of the permit fee, prior to construction of such installation or modification.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Liquid-waste and septic systems in Roosevelt County subject to New Mexico onsite wastewater rules.
      “Application – Print and fill out an Application for Liquid Waste Permit, Section 20.7.3.401 NMAC”
    • Required — Installation or modification of a new or existing on-site liquid waste system, including residential or commercial units on lots for which such a system is required.
      “No person shall install or have installed a new on-site liquid waste system or modify or have modified an existing on-site liquid waste system, unless that person obtains a permit issued by the department, including payment of the permit fee, prior to construction of such installation or modification.”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    Inspection of liquid-waste systems in Roosevelt County before operation.

    • The applicant must request inspection from NMED 48 hours, or two business days, in advance.
    • The system must not be covered before inspection.
    • After approved inspection, NMED issues a Permit to Operate.

    inspection notice: >= 48 hours (or 2 business days)

    “Request Inspection by NMED 48 hours (2 business days) in advance”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Septic-system installation and operation in Roosevelt County under NMED liquid-waste permitting.
      “Request Inspection by NMED 48 hours (2 business days) in advance (DO NOT COVER BEFORE INSPECTION)”
  • Off-grid sanitationLimited

    Privies, permitted on-site liquid waste systems, and qualifying private residential graywater discharges statewide.

    • A privy may dispose of human excreta and toilet paper but not other liquid wastes.
    • Untreated liquid waste must go to a permitted and approved enclosed system, permitted and approved treatment unit, or public sewer, except qualifying graywater.
    • Graywater under 250 gallons per day may be used for household gardening, composting, or landscaping irrigation only if all listed conditions are met, including no runoff, no spraying, no watercourse discharge, floodway exclusion, five-foot groundwater separation, local ordinance compliance, 24-hour storage limit, and specified well setbacks.
    • Graywater use for purposes other than irrigation or composting requires a department permit.

    private residential graywater discharge: < 250 gallons per day (Qualifying graywater discharge under 20.7.3.810 NMAC) · graywater setback from private domestic well: >= 100 feet · graywater setback from public water supply well: >= 200 feet · graywater storage before discharge: <= 24 hours

    “A privy may be used for the disposal of human excreta and toilet paper, but not for the disposal of other liquid wastes.”
  • Mandatory utility hookupConditional

    Residential and commercial units using an on-site liquid waste system when a public sewer is available and connection is required by the local authority with jurisdiction.

    • A public sewer is deemed available when it has capacity and is located in a thoroughfare, right-of-way, or easement abutting the lot.
    • The on-site system must be properly abandoned within 30 days after connection.
    • The state rule does not itself identify which local authority will require connection.

    abandonment deadline after sewer connection: 30 days

    “All residential and commercial units utilizing an on-site liquid waste system shall connect to a public sewer upon availability and if required in accordance with the local authority that has jurisdiction.”
  • Agricultural exemptionConditional

    Statewide agricultural exemption from the New Mexico Subdivision Act for the sale, lease, or other conveyance of a parcel of at least 35 acres.

    • The parcel must be thirty-five acres or larger.
    • The conveyance must occur within a twelve-month period covered by the statutory exception.
    • The land must have been used primarily and continuously for agricultural purposes, in accordance with Section 7-36-20 NMSA 1978, for the preceding three years.

    minimum parcel size: >= 35 acres · agricultural use duration: >= 3 years (land must have been used primarily and continuously for agricultural purposes in accordance with Section 7-36-20 NMSA 1978) · conveyance period: 12 months (within any twelve-month period)

    “the sale, lease or other conveyance of any parcel that is thirty-five acres or larger in size within any twelve-month period; provided that the land has been used primarily and continuously for agricultural purposes, in accordance with Section 7-36-20 NMSA 1978, for the preceding three years;”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Division of land statewide in New Mexico into two or more parcels for sale, lease, other conveyance, or building development, subject to the New Mexico Subdivision Act and its statutory exceptions.

    • The source defines subdivision as division of a surface area of land, including land within a previously approved subdivision, into two or more parcels for sale, lease or other conveyance or for building development, whether immediate or future.
    • The Act contains exceptions, including certain agricultural conveyances, grazing or farming divisions, municipal-boundary divisions, family transfers, divisions creating no parcel smaller than 140 acres, and other listed exceptions.
    “The board of county commissioners of each county shall regulate subdivisions within the county's boundaries.”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    Permanent or temporary direct vehicular access from property in close proximity to or adjoining a New Mexico state highway.

    • An access permit must be issued by the New Mexico Department of Transportation before constructing or modifying covered access.
    • Access permits are issued only when the application complies with 18.31.6 NMAC.
    • The department or an approved issuing authority may impose terms and conditions.
    • The rule concerns state highways under the jurisdiction of the state transportation commission; it does not establish a universal permit requirement for every non-state roadway.
    • For additional traffic from expansion or redevelopment, the property owner must contact the department to determine whether a new application or access modification is required; no new application is required if the department determines modifications are unnecessary.
    “no person shall construct or modify any permanent or temporary access [...] without an access permit issued by the New Mexico department of transportation.”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Construction or development within a FEMA Special Flood Hazard Area in a New Mexico community, and proposed construction or other development in communities where FEMA has not defined a Special Flood Hazard Area.

    • Approval by the local community Floodplain Administrator is required before construction or development within any Special Flood Hazard Area.
    • Where FEMA has not defined the Special Flood Hazard Area, the community must require permits for all proposed construction or other development, including manufactured homes, to determine whether the activity is in a flood-prone area.
    • Approval is intended to ensure compliance with the National Flood Insurance Program and the community’s floodplain management ordinance.
    • The source identifies 104 New Mexico communities participating in the National Flood Insurance Program; the administering official is the applicable local community Floodplain Administrator, not the state agency.
    “Approval by the local community Floodplain Administrator is required before construction or development begins within any Special Flood Hazard Area.”
  • Permit feesVariable (with conditions)

    New Mexico Construction Industries Division permitting fees for covered construction work statewide.

    • General building permitting fees vary by type of construction, square footage, type of materials, and construction costs.
    • The official schedule separately publishes fixed fees for some electrical, LP gas, mechanical/plumbing, and other items.
    • Applicants are directed to contact one of CID’s three offices for permitting fees.
    “Permitting Fees are based upon type of construction, square footage, type of materials and construction costs.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Published — New Mexico CID building and related permit fees applicable to Roosevelt County state permits.
      “Permitting Fees are based upon type of construction, square footage, type of materials and construction costs.”
    • Variable (with conditions) — New Mexico CID building-permit fees applicable to construction in Roosevelt County.
      “Permitting Fees are based upon type of construction, square footage, type of materials and construction costs.”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    New Mexico CID homeowner building-permit process applicable to residential construction in Roosevelt County.

    • County planning and zoning approval must accompany the permit request.
    • Two complete sets of plans, the Multi-Purpose State Building Application, and the applicable fee are required.
    • The opened FAQ states a complete permit request may be issued within five working days and residential permits are generally processed in three to four working days.

    permit issuance after complete package: <= 5 working days · residential processing time: 3 to 4 working days

    “Permits are processed by the date they are received. Residential permits are being processed in 3 to 4 working days. Commercial permits are processed in 5 to 10 working days.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Construction Industries Division permit applications in New Mexico.
      “Permits can also be completed using our online permitting portal.”
  • county zoning authorityGeneral

    New Mexico counties may adopt zoning ordinances for all or any portion of county territory that is not within a municipality's zoning jurisdiction.

    • The county zoning authority's ordinance applies only to territory not within the zoning jurisdiction of a municipality.
    • Municipalities may have concurrent extraterritorial zoning authority in specified circumstances, including population-based distances, overlapping extraterritorial jurisdictions, and additional territory placed under municipal jurisdiction by county-municipal agreement.
    • Concurrent municipal authority is exercised pursuant to an extraterritorial zoning authority or joint powers agreement and may be exercised whether or not the county has enacted a comprehensive zoning ordinance.
    • In the absence of a county zoning ordinance, a qualified-elector petition signed by at least twenty-five percent of votes cast for governor at the preceding general election may require the board of county commissioners to adopt a county zoning ordinance within one year.
    “A.  a county zoning authority may adopt a zoning ordinance applicable to all or any portion of the territory within the county that is not within the zoning jurisdiction of a municipality;”
  • county building authorityLimited

    New Mexico counties that qualify as an authority having jurisdiction may administer permitting, inspection, and enforcement for residential construction in unincorporated areas and enforce applicable New Mexico construction codes.

    • A county must have a full-service building department employing a full-time certified building official and have permitting, inspection, and enforcement authority over general construction, electrical, and mechanical-plumbing trades.
    • A county established as an authority having jurisdiction before July 1, 2009 may continue with authority over specified trades without a full-service building department until it relinquishes that authority.
    • Construction work subject to the Construction Industries Licensing Act and applicable rules requires the applicable permit before construction or specified installation, alteration, repair, maintenance, or demolition work begins, unless an applicable statute or rule provides otherwise.
    • The statewide rule is effective March 10, 2022, unless a later date is cited at the end of a section.
    • A permit may be issued to a homeowner only subject to the limitations of 14.5.2.18 NMAC and an annual permit under 14.5.2.19 NMAC.
    ““Authority having jurisdiction” “AHJ” means the state or a municipality, county or other political subdivision that has a full-service building department employing a full-time certified building official and has permitting, inspection and enforcement authority over the general construction, electrical and mechanical-plumbing trades within its jurisdiction.”

Still unanswered

We looked and could not find an official answer yet. Silence is not permission — ask the county directly.

  • County-wide zoning — Countywide zoning regulation in Roosevelt County.
  • Local zoning — Local zoning in Roosevelt County, including incorporated municipalities and unincorporated areas.
  • Zoning districts — Published zoning districts in Roosevelt County.
  • Minimum dwelling size — Minimum dwelling size in unincorporated Roosevelt County.
  • Minimum lot size — Minimum lot size in unincorporated Roosevelt County.
8 more unanswered
  • Setbacks
  • Lot coverage
  • Building height
  • Living in an RV
  • Camping on your land
  • Accessory dwellings
  • Well permit
  • Short-term rentals

Each answer was extracted from an official source and independently re-checked against that source by a second reviewer. That is an evidence check, not legal advice. Rules change; confirm with the authority before you buy or build.

Water rights & wells in Roosevelt County

Whether a new home can legally get its own water here — the sub-state groundwater regime, from New Mexico’s water agency.

Actively managed

This basin is under active state management — new water use is scrutinized, though a domestic well is usually still allowed.

Household wellPermit required (issued by right)

Nearly all developed New Mexico lies inside an OSE 'declared' underground water basin, but a household 72-12-1.1 domestic well is a by-right permit the State Engineer issues even in closed/over-appropriated basins (metering can be required). The by-right amount is cut to 0.25 acre-ft/yr in a declared Domestic Well Management Area, and a few basin-specific orders cap it further (Gallup Order 197, Zuni Order 199) or stop issuing new domestic permits entirely (Hot Springs Order 198).

Limit: 1 acre-ft/yr by right (NMSA 72-12-1.1); 0.25 acre-ft/yr in a declared Domestic Well Management Area

NM OSE domestic well rules, 19.27.5 NMAC ↗
  • Portales & Causey-Lingo Basins (Ogallala)partial of county

    Southern High Plains/Ogallala basins over a mined aquifer where new appropriations are limited by declining supply; household 72-12-1.1 domestic wells are still permitted. Specific curtailment text not located.

    NM OSE Water Rights District 2 ↗
  • Fort Sumner Underground Water Basinpartial of county

    OSE-declared Article-7 groundwater basin; new non-domestic (72-12-3) appropriations require an OSE permit showing unappropriated water. The 72-12-1.1 household domestic well remains by-right — no Domestic Well Management Area is declared in New Mexico. Pecos-system basin centered on De Baca County, administered under the Pecos River Compact.

    NM OSE Article 7 (Declared Underground Water Basins) ↗

Prior-appropriation state (first in time, first in right). Groundwater rules change and basin boundaries follow the aquifer, not the county line — confirm current well and appropriation rules with the New Mexico state water agency before you buy or drill.Groundwater governance as of Jul 2026, cited to each administering agency.

Living off-grid in Roosevelt County, New Mexico

Is Roosevelt County a good place to live off-grid or homestead?

Roosevelt County scores 30/100 on the Bolthole Index, a weak county profile. Its strengths: manageable long-term carry cost and deep seclusion — about 808 people within 15 miles. Watch-outs: thin water margin (16.1″/yr rainfall) and elevated mid-century heat, water, rain, or wildfire exposure.

Do you need a building permit in Roosevelt County, New Mexico?

Roosevelt County generally requires a residential building permit. Onsite septic is permitted by New Mexico Environment Department (NMED) - Liquid Waste Program (local NMED Field Office). These answers are quoted from official sources and independently re-checked. Rules change and cities within the county differ — always confirm with the county before you buy or build.

How much does land cost in Roosevelt County, New Mexico?

Land in Roosevelt County runs about $1,039 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Roosevelt County?

Roosevelt County gets about 16.1" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 42% of years. On water rights, Roosevelt County lies in the Portales & Causey-Lingo Basins (Ogallala) — Southern High Plains/Ogallala basins over a mined aquifer where new appropriations are limited by declining supply; household 72-12-1.1 domestic wells are still permitted. Specific curtailment text not located..

How remote is Roosevelt County?

A typical private-land location has about 808 people within 15 miles and 552,728 within 100 miles. These radius catchments are the published fallback where road routing is unavailable.

Off-grid gear

Going off-grid in Roosevelt County means bringing your own water and power. The kit we’d start with:

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How Roosevelt compares in New Mexico

Compare side-by-side →See all 33 New Mexico counties ranked →