Bolthole Index

Lincoln County, New Mexico

Building permits, zoning and land rules in Lincoln County, New Mexico

42Index Score / 100
#16 of 33 in New Mexico

Building permits are required for covered construction in Lincoln County, New Mexico, and the state Construction Industries Division issues them where no local building department has jurisdiction12. Lincoln County Planning administers local zoning, while incorporated communities may have separate zoning34. Septic permits come from the New Mexico Environment Department5.

At a glance

Building permit
Required for covered work; state CID handles permits where no local building department has jurisdiction12
Zoning
Local zoning exists, but county and municipal jurisdictions vary by parcel34
Septic
NMED permit required before installation, registration or modification56
Owner-builder
Available for a qualified homeowner's primary residence, with strict work and trade limits7
Tiny home
State code allows a qualifying tiny house on a permanent foundation; county zoning still applies89
RV living
Long-term occupancy on private land could not be confirmed; ask Lincoln County Planning10
Minimum home or lot size
No countywide standard was confirmed; ask Planning for the parcel's zoning requirements10
Private well
Obtain an Office of the State Engineer permit before drilling; parcel-specific exceptions were not established11

Who to call

Zoning

Lincoln County Planning Department

Land-use planning, development coordination and local zoning administration for Lincoln County

575-258-1232

109 Kansas City Road Ruidoso, NM 88345

Building permits

New Mexico Construction Industries Division

State construction permits, contractor licensing and building-code enforcement where CID has jurisdiction

(505) 222-9800

5500 San Antonio Dr. Suite F Albuquerque, New Mexico 87109

Online permits →

Septic permits

New Mexico Environment Department Onsite Wastewater Bureau — Ruidoso

Local NMED contact for onsite liquid-waste and septic permitting

575-258-3272

Ruidoso.ehb@env.nm.gov

1216 E Mechem, Building 2 Ruidoso, NM 88345

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 5, 2026.

Off-grid gear

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

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

Yes. Covered residential construction in Lincoln County requires a building permit before work begins, and the New Mexico Construction Industries Division handles permitting where no local building department has jurisdiction12. The state residential code covers regulated construction, alteration, repair, moving and demolition, subject to listed exceptions12. Separate plumbing, electrical or mechanical permits may still apply to work that is exempt from a general building permit12. Lincoln County zoning approval may also be required before the state application, so confirm the parcel's jurisdiction and proposed use with Planning first133. All re-roofs and roof coatings require a building permit and inspections under the current permit rule1.

Who handles building permits in Lincoln County?

Lincoln County Planning handles land-use planning, development coordination and local zoning administration, while the New Mexico Construction Industries Division handles building permits where no local building department has jurisdiction102. Contact Lincoln County Planning at 575-258-1232 or visit 109 Kansas City Road in Ruidoso for parcel and zoning questions10. CID lists its Albuquerque office at 5500 San Antonio Dr. Suite F, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87109, phone (505) 222-9800, and offers online permits14. State permit fees cover plan review, the permit notice and required inspections, with the amount based on project valuation15. Permitted residential work receives foundation, slab or under-floor, frame, weather-resistive-barrier and final inspections; trade finals come before the final general construction inspection16. CID inspection requests require the permit number, inspection type and requestor contact information, with completed work and the permit posted at the front-door window17.

Does Lincoln County have zoning?

Yes, but not through one uniform countywide regime. Lincoln County Planning administers local zoning, while incorporated communities such as the Village of Ruidoso may administer their own rules34. New Mexico county zoning applies only outside municipal zoning jurisdiction, with possible municipal extraterritorial authority in some areas18. We could not confirm a current county zoning map or a countywide schedule for minimum lot size, minimum dwelling size, setbacks, lot coverage or building height. Ask Lincoln County Planning to identify the parcel's governing jurisdiction, zoning district and dimensional standards before selecting a house plan10. New Mexico counties must regulate subdivisions, including water, wastewater, access, roads and recording requirements, but the statewide rule does not supply one uniform local standard19.

How do septic permits work in Lincoln County?

The New Mexico Environment Department issues onsite liquid-waste permits in Lincoln County through its local field office5. A complete application is required before installation, registration or modification and includes ownership evidence, a site diagram, the residential floor plan and relevant plat or survey information6. The Ruidoso contact is 575-258-3272, Ruidoso.ehb@env.nm.gov, at 1216 E Mechem, Building 2 in Ruidoso20. A conventional system may take up to five business days for completeness review and ten business days for a decision21. The published fee for a conventional system up to 1,000 gallons per day is $22522. Request inspection at least 48 hours, or two business days, in advance and do not cover the system before inspection6. Only about 20% of mapped Lincoln County soils avoid severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so establish site feasibility before fixing the house location23.

Can you live in an RV or tiny home in Lincoln County?

We could not confirm a Lincoln County rule that answers long-term RV occupancy or temporary camping on private land, so ask Lincoln County Planning about the parcel's jurisdiction, zoning district and any temporary-use approval before relying on an RV while building10. New Mexico provides a building-code path for a tiny house used as a dwelling on a permanent foundation when it supplies complete independent living facilities and complies with the residential code and Appendix AQ8. A qualifying tiny house may have no more than 400 square feet of floor area excluding lofts8. A tiny house remaining on a chassis with a permanent axle is treated as a recreational vehicle, while a unit with axles removed and placed on supports or a foundation must meet the permanent-foundation tiny-house requirements8. Local zoning still decides whether that use is allowed on the parcel4.

How do you build a home in Lincoln County?

  1. Ask Lincoln County Planning to confirm the governing jurisdiction, zoning district, setbacks, allowed use and any local approval needed for the site410.
  1. Obtain an Office of the State Engineer permit before drilling a well; ask that office whether any parcel-specific exception applies11.
  1. Apply to the local NMED field office if the parcel will use septic, submitting the complete liquid-waste application and supporting site documents6.
  1. Submit the state building-permit application with project and property details, any required zoning approval and two complete plan sets13.
  1. A qualified owner-builder must use the permit only for a primary residence, personally perform a significant portion of the work and use licensed contractors for subcontracted work7.
  1. Complete the required construction and trade inspections; the certificate of occupancy follows approval of the final general construction inspection1624.

What should you check before buying land in Lincoln County?

Start with jurisdiction and zoning because county and municipal land-use rules vary across Lincoln County4. Check septic feasibility early because only about 20% of mapped soils avoid severe limitations for a conventional drain field23. Ask Lincoln County Planning to review flood status before choosing a building site; the county's approval-to-construct form records whether the property or main building lies in a mapped Special Flood Hazard Area or an unmapped area2510. Confirm legal access because we could not verify a current county driveway-approval rule. Obtain an Office of the State Engineer permit before drilling a private well, while confirming whether an exception applies to the proposed well11. Water planning matters in a county averaging about 14.1 inches of precipitation a year and experiencing severe drought in about 42.2% of years2627. The median property-tax bill is about $1,143 per year, with an effective rate of about 0.5%2829.

Watch-outs

  • A state building permit does not replace local zoning review; confirm the parcel's jurisdiction and any zoning approval before submitting the CID application134.
  • Long-term RV living and temporary camping on private land remain unconfirmed, so ask Lincoln County Planning before using an RV as a dwelling10.
  • Only about 20% of mapped soils avoid severe limitations for a conventional septic drain field, making early site evaluation especially important23.
  • Lincoln County's construction-review form checks mapped and unmapped flood areas, but the complete current floodplain permit rule could not be confirmed; ask Planning before siting improvements2510.

Sources

  1. 14.5.2 NMAC — Permits, quoted and re-checked
  2. NM Regulation & Licensing - CID Residential Building Permit Guide (2026 county census)
  3. Planning, quoted and re-checked
  4. Planning, quoted and re-checked
  5. env.nm.gov, quoted and re-checked
  6. Liquid Waste Permitting Process, quoted and re-checked
  7. 14.5.2 NMAC — Permits, quoted and re-checked
  8. 14.7.3 NMAC — 2021 New Mexico Residential Building Code (New Mexico statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  9. Lincoln County Planning Department (2026 county census)
  10. Lincoln County Planning Department (lincolncountynm.gov)
  11. Apply for a Permit, quoted and re-checked
  12. Building Permit Guide for Residential Construction, quoted and re-checked
  13. Building Permit Guide for Residential Construction, quoted and re-checked
  14. New Mexico Construction Industries Division (rld.nm.gov)
  15. Building Permit Guide for Residential Construction, quoted and re-checked
  16. Building Permit Guide for Residential Construction, quoted and re-checked
  17. Construction Industry Frequently Asked Questions, quoted and re-checked
  18. nmlegis.gov (New Mexico statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  19. Senate Bill 410 — Section 47-6-9 NMSA 1978, Subdivision Regulation—County Authority (New Mexico statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  20. New Mexico Environment Department Onsite Wastewater Bureau — Ruidoso (env.nm.gov)
  21. Apply for a Permit, quoted and re-checked
  22. Apply for a Permit, quoted and re-checked
  23. Share of soils USDA rates "not limited" for a conventional septic drain field (SSURGO). A strict rating: the median county is about 6% and a tenth of counties are 0%, so a low figure means most lots need a site evaluation or an engineered system, not that septic is impossible. Cite it only with that caveat: Bolthole Index county data
  24. Building Permit Guide for Residential Construction, quoted and re-checked
  25. Approval to Construct/Address Application, quoted and re-checked
  26. Annual precipitation: Bolthole Index county data
  27. Share of years in severe drought: Bolthole Index county data
  28. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data
  29. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data

Written October 5, 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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Compared with neighboring counties

Like all 6 of its neighbors, Lincoln County requires a building permit for a home.

RuleLincoln CountyTorrance CountyOtero CountyChaves CountyDe Baca CountySocorro CountyGuadalupe County
Building permitRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequired
County zoningYesYesNoYesNot publishedNot publishedNot published
Septic permitsNM Env. Dept.NMEDNM Env. Dept.NM Env. Dept.NMEDNM Env. Dept.NM Env. Dept.

County locator

Lincoln County in New Mexico

42
County map
Lincoln County highlighted among the New Mexico counties · colored by Index score

How Lincoln County scores

Seclusion84100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency2499% ev.
Admin Boringness46100% ev.
Durability26100% ev.
Property Autonomy38100% ev.
Carry Cost80100% ev.

Evidence strength: 100%. This reports direct-source completeness and fallback use; it is separate from the score and is not a confidence interval. How it works →

$333kTypical home
0.5%Property tax
$915Land / acre
14.1"Annual rain
42.2% of yrsSevere drought
8.5 / yr (+7.4)Mid-century 100°F days
33.5 daysMid-century dry spell
1" (+4%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.25×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,683Home insurance / yr
2.1% / yrInsurance growth
1.28%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
190Radius comparison (15 mi)
4.1People / sq mi
35.7%Federal land
77.8%Land at 15% slope or less
20%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
440,822 acWorkable land screen
13.7%Wooded land
8 tonsBiomass / forest ac
55.2°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Lincoln County

Inside a city or town, that city usually issues building permits and sets zoning; the county’s rules above cover unincorporated land. Septic, wells and floodplain rules usually stay with the county or state everywhere.

Not yet researched: Village of Capitan · Town of Carrizozo · Village of Corona

Answers from the rulebook for Lincoln County

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

Lincoln County rules

  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Aggregate local zoning regimes within Lincoln County, including county-administered local zoning and municipal zoning within incorporated communities.

    • The county page identifies county-level local zoning administration.
    • The Village of Ruidoso separately identifies a municipal Planning and Zoning Department that manages land use and zoning regulations.
    • This is an aggregate countywide conclusion and does not mean Lincoln County administers each municipal ordinance.
    “The Planning Department is dedicated to serving Lincoln County with land use planning, development coordination, local zoning regulation administration, promotion of comprehensive and smart growth concepts and special project management in order to enhance the quality of life and economic vitality of Lincoln County.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Present — Local zoning regulation administered by the Lincoln County Planning Department.
      “The Planning Department is dedicated to serving Lincoln County with land use planning, development coordination, local zoning regulation administration, promotion of comprehensive and smart growth concepts and special project management in order to enhance the quality of life and economic vitality of Lincoln County.”
  • Building in a floodplainLimited

    Approval-to-construct review for property or main-building location in unincorporated Lincoln County.

    • The form records whether the property or main building is in a Special Flood Hazard Area or an unmapped area.
    • The form references the Lincoln County FIRM or Floodway Map, community number 35012, and map date November 16, 2011.
    • The form states that federal law requires flood insurance as a condition of a federally backed mortgage or loan secured for the buildings.
    • The form warns that unmapped areas may possibly be in a flood zone and that areas outside a Special Flood Hazard Area may still flood.

    FIRM or Floodway Map date: 2011-11-16

    “is located in a Special Flood Hazard Area.”
  • County-wide zoningPresent

    The Lincoln County Planning Department administers local zoning regulation and land use planning.

    Lincoln County Planning Department ↗Scouted from the county site, not yet 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.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Buildings and structures, and electrical, plumbing, mechanical, and LP-gas work, in Lincoln County when subject to CID jurisdiction.
      “the applicable permit has first been obtained”
    • Required — Residential construction regulated by the New Mexico Residential Code in Lincoln County.
      “Except as specified in IRC, Section 105.2, 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.”
  • Owner-builder exemptionConditional

    A New Mexico property owner constructing or altering the owner’s single-family primary residence, including permitted appurtenant structures, under a homeowner’s permit.

    • The exemption is limited to construction or alteration of the owner’s primary residence; other use cancels the current permit and can result in denial of later homeowner permits.
    • The homeowner must comply with CILA, NMAC rules, applicable standards and codes, and may act as the general contractor only when the major portion of the work, based on dollar amount, is completed by the homeowner.
    • A permit is required for all construction-related work for which a permit is required by statute or rule; the rule does not exempt the owner-builder from state permitting or inspections.
    • Homeowner permits are limited to single-family dwellings and appurtenant structures such as private garages, carports and sheds, require proof of ownership, and are subject to AHJ approval.
    • The application requires an AHJ-approved application, signed and notarized responsibility sheet, acknowledgement of the homeowner-permit instructions, local zoning approval, floodplain determination, proof of identity and ownership, and payment of required fees.
    • Separate homeowner permits may be issued for general building construction, mechanical/plumbing and electrical work; each is limited to the primary residence and does not apply to rental property, other owned property, or commercial work or property.
    • The homeowner is responsible for requesting inspections, correcting code violations, and requesting re-inspections for a certificate of occupancy or final inspection. Subcontractors remain responsible for permits, inspections and corrections for plumbing, mechanical and electrical work they perform.
    • The homeowner may perform authorized work personally or with W-2 employees, or subcontract part of the work while self-performing a significant portion. Subcontracted work must be performed by licensed contractors who obtain their own permits and pass required inspections.
    • A homeowner permit is invalid for a project managed, supervised or acted on as general contractor by a GB-2 or GB-98 contractor; that contractor must obtain the appropriate permits and assumes responsibility for the site work.
    • Single-scope projects such as roofing or window installation are ineligible when subcontracted and not performed by the homeowner or valid W-2 employees.
    • Plumbing requires sufficient knowledge as determined by the TBC or CBO; a written examination with a minimum passing score of 75% may be required, failed examinations may not be repeated sooner than 30 days, and permitted plumbing work must be performed by the permittee.
    • Electrical work requires approved plans or drawings and a CID homeowner electrical exam with a minimum passing score of 75%; failed examinations may not be repeated sooner than 30 days, and permitted electrical work must be performed by the permittee.
    • A homeowner permit may not be issued for HVAC, natural gas or LP gas installations. HVAC and natural-gas work requires a properly licensed contractor and AHJ permitting and inspection; LP-gas work requires a properly licensed contractor and permitting and inspection through the LP gas trade bureau.
    • A homeowner-permit project may not be placed on the market for sale while under construction; doing so automatically voids the permit and may lead to unlicensed-contracting charges.
    • No more than one homeowner permit for a single-family dwelling may be issued to the same property owner within any 12-month period.
    • The cited rule section states an adoption/replacement date of March 10, 2022.

    homeowner electrical exam minimum passing score: >= 75 percent (Required after plan approval for issuance of a homeowner electrical permit.) · homeowner plumbing exam minimum passing score: >= 75 percent (The TBC or CBO may require the written examination.) · failed homeowner exam retest interval: >= 30 days (Failed plumbing and electrical examinations may not be repeated sooner.) · homeowner permits per single-family dwelling and property owner: <= 1 per 12 months

    “A homeowner permit allows homeowners to obtain permits for constructing or altering their primary residence without becoming a licensed contractor is strictly limited to construction and alteration of their primary residence. Any other use of a homeowner’s permit shall result in cancellation of the current homeowner permit and denial of any subsequent request for a homeowner permit. The homeowner licensing exemption requires conformity with CILA, its rules, standards and codes. This includes a homeowner acting as a general contractor for the project. The homeowner’s permit authorizes the homeowner to physically perform the work, alone or with legal employees, or act as a general contractor and subcontract portions of the work to licensed contractors. In order to qualify for the homeowner permit the major portion of the work to be performed, based on dollar amount, must be completed by the homeowner. A homeowner’s permit may only be issued to a property owner and only for the property owner’s primary residence occupied or intended to be occupied by the homeowner.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Conditional — A homeowner seeking a homeowner construction permit for a primary residence in Lincoln County.
      “The homeowner must also sign and notarize”
    • Available (with conditions) — Qualified homeowners seeking homeowner permits for a primary residence in Lincoln County.
      “A homeowner permit allows homeowners to obtain permits”
    • Conditional — Homeowner construction permits for a homeowner's own residence or home work.
      “A homeowner’s permit may not be used to permit a project where a GB-2 or GB-98 contractor is acting as a general contractor on the project.”
  • 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.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Adopted (with conditions) — New Mexico building-code framework applicable in Lincoln County where state CID jurisdiction applies.
      “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.”
    • Adopted — Residential construction in New Mexico subject to the jurisdiction of the Construction Industries Division, including detached one- and two-family dwellings, qualifying townhouses, and their accessory structures.
      “This rule adopts by reference the 2021 International Residential Code, as amended by this rule.”
  • InspectionsLimited

    Inspections administered or coordinated by the New Mexico Construction Industries Division for permitted construction work in Lincoln County under state jurisdiction.

    • The FAQ directs applicants to the commercial and residential Building Permit Guides for the complete inspection requirements.
    • An inspection request requires a permit number, inspection type, requestor name and contact information, and verification that all work is complete and the permit is affixed to the window closest to the front exterior door.
    • The inspection page lists set-up and blocking final inspection, including blocking, sewer, water, electric, and natural gas, and permanent-foundation pre-pour and final inspections.

    inspection request support center: (505) 222-9813 in the Albuquerque area or (877) 243-0979 elsewhere in New Mexico

    “When requesting an inspection, be prepared to supply the following information: Permit number Type of inspection needed Requestor’s name and contact information Please verify all work is complete and the permit is affixed to the window closest to the front exterior door.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — State-regulated residential construction in Lincoln County.
      “REQUIRED INSPECTIONS To request an inspection e-mail us at CID.lnspection@state.nm.us or call 505-222-9813 or 877-243-0979 1. FOUNDATION INSPECTION. To be made after excavations for footings are complete and any required reinforcing steel is in place.”
    • Required — Residential construction requiring a New Mexico building permit.
      “FINAL INSPECTION. To be made after finish grading and the building is completed and ready for occupancy. Final electrical, plumbing and mechanical inspections must be conducted prior to final general construction inspection.”
    • Required — State-administered residential and commercial construction requiring building permits.
      “REQUIRED INSPECTIONS To request an inspection e-mail us at CID.lnspection@state.nm.us or call 505-222-9813 or 877-243-0979”
  • Certificate of occupancyLimited

    Homeowner-permit projects in Lincoln County.

    • The homeowner must request inspections, correct violations, and request required re-inspections to obtain a certificate of occupancy or final inspection as applicable.
    • Subcontractors remain responsible for permits, inspections, corrections, and re-inspections for their work.
    “obtain a certificate of occupancy or final inspection”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
  • Building heightSpecified

    Detached one- and two-family dwellings, multiple single-family dwellings (townhouses) with separate means of egress, and their accessory structures subject to the New Mexico Construction Industries Division residential code.

    • The cited residential code applies to construction performed in New Mexico on or after December 14, 2023.
    • The construction must be subject to the jurisdiction of the Construction Industries Division.
    • The code scope is limited to dwellings and townhouses not more than three stories high; construction outside the NMRBC scope may be subject to the New Mexico Commercial Building Code.
    • The rule states an effective date of July 14, 2023, with permits issuable under either rule until December 14, 2023, and only under the new rule after December 14, 2023.

    maximum stories within NMRBC scope: <= 3 stories (The provision describes the scope of the residential code and is not a general zoning-height limit for every land use.)

    “dwellings and multiple single-family dwellings (townhouses) not more than three stories high with separate means of egress”
  • 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
    • State — Onsite wastewater and liquid-waste permitting in Lincoln County.
      “Submit to Local NMED Field Office for review”
    • State — On-site liquid-waste systems in Lincoln County.
      “Submit to Local NMED Field Office for review”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Installation, registration, or modification of onsite wastewater systems in Lincoln County under New Mexico’s statewide liquid-waste program.

    • A complete Liquid Waste Permit application is required.
    • The application must include owner or authorized-representative authorization signatures.
    • Licensed installers must hold an MM-1, MM-98, MS-1, or MS-3 license; homeowners may install simple conventional systems only after passing a written test.
    • Supporting documentation includes proof of ownership, a site diagram showing applicable setbacks, a residential floorplan showing bedrooms, and relevant plat or survey information.
    • The complete application is submitted to the local NMED Field Office for review.
    • NMED may grant the permit, grant it with conditions, or deny it.
    • Conventional systems may take up to five business days for completeness review and ten business days for a decision; advanced treatment systems may take up to ten business days for completeness review and twenty business days for a decision.
    • A variance process requires a minimum of twenty days for public notification and review.
    • Payment is made only after NMED approval or conditional approval. After payment, a Permit to Construct is issued; it is valid for one year and may generally be extended up to one additional year in writing.
    • NMED inspection must be requested at least 48 hours, or two business days, in advance, and the system must not be covered before inspection.
    • After an approved final inspection, NMED issues a Permit to Operate.
    • Permit fees are listed as effective 7/1/20, including $225 for a conventional system up to 1,000 gpd and higher fees for larger or alternative systems.

    conventional system fee up to 1,000 gpd: 225 USD (Fee schedule states effective 7/1/20.) · Permit to Construct validity: 1 year (May generally be extended up to one additional year in writing by the Department.)

    “Print and fill out an Application for Liquid Waste Permit”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Installation, modification, registration, and operation of onsite liquid-waste systems serving property in Lincoln County.
      “Application – Print and fill out an Application for Liquid Waste Permit, Section 20.7.3.401 NMAC”
    • Required — Installation or modification of an on-site liquid-waste system.
      “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 inspectionLimited

    Property transfers involving property with an established on-site liquid waste system, subject to the applicable local exception for unincorporated Bernalillo County.

    • Before transfer, the transferor must have the established on-site liquid waste system evaluated.
    • The evaluation must be performed by an evaluator qualified under 20.7.3.904(B) using a department-approved form.
    • Unpermitted systems must be registered under 20.7.3.401(J) or permitted under 20.7.3.401(K).
    • Evaluators must submit copies of evaluation reports, whether completed or not, to the department within 15 days.
    • A permit or variance application must be submitted within 15 days of the evaluation to correct deficiencies or permit violations identified by the evaluation.
    • Advanced treatment systems and holding tanks have additional ownership-transfer, maintenance-contract, sampling, and permit-amendment requirements.
    • An inspection or evaluation performed within the prior 180 days may support an extension request if the permitted system has not been used since that inspection or evaluation.

    evaluation-report submission deadline: 15 days (Evaluators must submit copies of all reports, whether completed or not) · permit or variance application deadline after evaluation: 15 days (Applies when correcting deficiencies or permit violations identified by the evaluation) · possible evaluation extension lookback: 180 days (The system must not have been in use since the inspection or evaluation)

    “Prior to the transfer of a property with an established on-site liquid waste system, the transferor of the property shall have the system evaluated. Liquid waste systems shall be evaluated by an evaluator qualified in accordance with Subsection B of 20.7.3.904 NMAC utilizing a department approved form.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Onsite liquid-waste systems installed or modified in Lincoln County.
      “Request Inspection by NMED 48 hours (2 business days) in advance”
    • Required — Onsite liquid-waste systems in Lincoln County after construction or modification.
      “Request Inspection by NMED 48 hours (2 business days) in advance (DO NOT COVER BEFORE INSPECTION) After Approved Inspection you will receive a copy of the Permit to Operate”
    • Required — Permitted on-site liquid-waste systems before covering and operation.
      “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.”
  • Well permitRequired

    Well drilling associated with property in Lincoln County.

    • The NMED permit page directs applicants to the Office of the State Engineer for well drilling permits, well logs, groundwater depth, and vulnerable-water information.
    • The source does not establish every exemption or threshold applicable to a particular well.
    “Before you have a well drilled, you must first obtain a permit to drill”
  • 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;”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Conditional — New Mexico contractor licensing requirements for earthmoving, excavating, and ditching activities used in preparation or production of agriculture or maintenance of livestock on a farm or ranch.
      “earthmoving, excavating and ditching activities applicable to the preparation and production of agriculture or maintenance of livestock on a farm or ranch are exempt from licensing requirements.”
    • Conditional — Agricultural land divisions and conveyances that would otherwise fall within the New Mexico Subdivision Act definition.
      “provided that the land has been used primarily and continuously for agricultural purposes, in accordance with Section 7-36-20 NMSA 1978”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision regulation within New Mexico counties, administered through county subdivision regulations under the New Mexico Subdivision Act.

    • The board of county commissioners of each county must regulate subdivisions within the county boundaries.
    • County regulations must address the county's subdivision requirements; the cited provision lists requirements including preliminary and final plats, water requirements and availability, water conservation, liquid waste disposal, solid waste disposal, legal access, roads, utility easements, fees, recording conveyances, financial security, fencing where appropriate, and other health, safety, or general-welfare matters.
    • Counties may adopt requirements more stringent than the New Mexico Subdivision Act only if the county has adopted a comprehensive plan, the plan identifies and explains the need for the more stringent requirements, and the more stringent regulations are specifically identified in the plan.
    • The cited statute does not establish one statewide minimum lot size or uniform local subdivision standard.

    county subdivision regulation: required · more stringent county requirements: allowed only subject to comprehensive-plan conditions

    “The board of county commissioners of each county shall regulate subdivisions within the county's boundaries. In regulating subdivisions, the board of county commissioners of each county shall adopt regulations setting forth the county's requirements for:”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Regulated (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 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.”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    New Mexico liquid-waste permits applicable in Lincoln County.

    • The published table is identified as 20.7.11 NMAC liquid-waste treatment and disposal fees.
    • The page states the fee schedule is effective July 1, 2020.
    • Other construction or local fees were not established from the reviewed sources.

    conventional system up to 1,000 gpd: 225 USD (Effective 2020-07-01.) · homeowner qualification certificate: 170 USD (Effective 2020-07-01.) · re-inspection fee: 125 USD (Effective 2020-07-01.)

    “Permit Fees (20.7.11 NMAC) Effective 7/1/20”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — New Mexico CID permitting fees applicable to qualifying work in Lincoln County.
      “Permitting Fees are based upon type of construction, square footage, type of materials and construction costs. The best method of obtaining permitting fees is to contact any of CID’s three offices at:”
    • Variable (with conditions) — New Mexico residential building permits applicable in Lincoln County.
      “The fee, which covers plan review, the permit notice and required inspections, is based on the valuation amount. Our office will calculate the valuation and fee for you.”
    • Variable (with conditions) — New Mexico Construction Industries Division permitting fees for covered construction work statewide.
      “Permitting Fees are based upon type of construction, square footage, type of materials and construction costs.”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    State building-permit application process for projects in Lincoln County.

    • Applicant must submit the state building permit application with project, property, location, use, legal-description, construction-material, and square-footage information.
    • Homeowner applicants must sign and notarize the homeowner responsibilities form.
    • Zoning approval and signature may be required before applying for the building permit.
    • Two complete plan sets are required.

    plan sets: 2 complete sets

    “To obtain a building permit, the applicant shall fill out an APPLICATION”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Liquid-waste permit applications for Lincoln County.
      “Submit to Local NMED Field Office for review NMED will notify applicant of actions taken on the permit application. Actions may included granting the permit, granting with conditions, or denial.”
    • Partial — Residential state building-permit process for construction in Lincoln County.
      “Submit the completed Multi-Purpose State Building Application.”
    • 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 adopting zoning for all or part of unincorporated territory outside municipal zoning jurisdiction.

    • A county zoning ordinance may apply only to territory not within the zoning jurisdiction of a municipality.
    • Municipalities may have concurrent extraterritorial zoning authority in specified areas, including areas near municipalities meeting statutory population thresholds and additional contiguous territory placed under municipal extraterritorial jurisdiction by county-municipal agreement.
    • Concurrent extraterritorial authority is exercised under an extraterritorial zoning authority or joint powers agreement and may be exercised regardless of whether the county has enacted a comprehensive zoning ordinance.
    • If no county zoning ordinance exists, qualified electors may petition for adoption; the petition must equal at least twenty-five percent of the votes cast for governor at the last preceding general election, and the board of county commissioners must adopt a county zoning ordinance within one year.

    minimum petition threshold: >= 25 percent of votes cast for governor at the last preceding general election · county ordinance adoption deadline after qualifying petition: 1 year

    “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;”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • General — New Mexico counties may adopt zoning ordinances for all or any portion of county territory that is not within a municipality's zoning jurisdiction.
      “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 authorityGeneral

    New Mexico counties that establish and maintain a building department for permitting and inspections of general construction, mechanical-plumbing, and electrical work, including residential construction in unincorporated areas.

    • CID retains statewide permitting and inspection authority unless a county, municipality, or political subdivision has a current building department providing permitting and inspections.
    • To establish and maintain a building department, the county must establish a full-service building department covering general construction, mechanical-plumbing, and electrical trades; employ a full-time certified building official; and employ sufficient CID-certified inspectors for each trade.
    • The county authority does not include liquefied petroleum work, over which CID has exclusive authority.
    • CID conducts all inspections if the county lacks a certified building official.
    • If the certified building official leaves, plan review, permitting, and inspections transfer to the state unless the county replaces the official within 60 days or a longer period approved by the division, or enters a memorandum of understanding with another county, municipality, or political subdivision.

    replacement period for certified building official: 60 days (A longer period may be approved by the division.)

    “In order to establish and maintain a building department allowing permitting and inspections the county, municipality or political subdivision must establish a full-service building department including general construction, mechanical-plumbing and electrical trades, must employ a full-time certified building official and employ sufficient CID certified inspectors to inspect for each trade.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — 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.
      ““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.

  • Zoning districts — Current zoning districts, zoning map, and district schedule for unincorporated Lincoln County.
  • Minimum dwelling size — Minimum dwelling-size requirements in Lincoln County, including county land-use rules and the Alto Lakes Special Zoning District.
  • Minimum lot size — Minimum lot-size requirements in Lincoln County, including county land-use rules and the Alto Lakes Special Zoning District.
  • Setbacks — Land-use setback requirements in Lincoln County, including county land-use rules and the Alto Lakes Special Zoning District.
  • Lot coverage — Lot coverage in unincorporated Lincoln County.
4 more unanswered
  • Living in an RV
  • Camping on your land
  • Accessory dwellings
  • 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 Lincoln County

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

Over-appropriated / declining

The aquifer here is over-appropriated and declining. A domestic well is usually still permit-exempt, but long-term supply is a genuine risk.

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 ↗
  • Roswell Artesian Basinpartial of county

    Pecos-connected artesian/shallow aquifer 'closed for an indefinite period' to new appropriations (State Engineer Order 7, 1937) and adjudicated under the Lewis decree; a new home cannot get a non-domestic right, but a 72-12-1.1 household domestic well is still issued (often meter-waived).

    NM OSE Roswell Basin Guidelines (2005) ↗
  • Tularosa 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. Hydrologically closed basin; over 90% of stored groundwater is too saline to drink, so fresh-water appropriations are heavily constrained.

    NM OSE Article 7 (Declared Underground Water Basins) ↗
  • Hondo Underground Water Basinlocalized 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. Rio Hondo (Pecos tributary) basin, surface-connected and administered within the Pecos system.

    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 Lincoln County, New Mexico

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

Lincoln County scores 42/100 on the Bolthole Index, a marginal county profile. Its strengths: sparse surroundings — about 190 people within 15 miles and manageable long-term carry cost. Watch-outs: weak self-sufficiency basics: only 14.1″ of rain a year, in severe drought 42.2% of years and elevated current hazard exposure.

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

Lincoln County generally requires a residential building permit, and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by New Mexico Environment Department - Onsite Wastewater (Liquid Waste) Program. Owner-builders may act as their own contractor to build their home. 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 Lincoln County, New Mexico?

Land in Lincoln County runs about $915 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Lincoln County?

Lincoln County gets about 14.1" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 42.2% of years. On water rights, Lincoln County lies in the Roswell Artesian Basin — Pecos-connected artesian/shallow aquifer 'closed for an indefinite period' to new appropriations (State Engineer Order 7, 1937) and adjudicated under the Lewis decree; a new home cannot get a non-domestic right, but a 72-12-1.1 household domestic well is still issued (often meter-waived)..

How remote is Lincoln County?

A typical private-land location has about 190 people within 15 miles and 881,976 within 100 miles. These radius catchments are the published fallback where road routing is unavailable.

How Lincoln compares in New Mexico

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