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 residential building permits, and covered work requires a permit before it begins unless an exemption applies12. We could not confirm a general county zoning ordinance3. Septic applications and inspections go through the New Mexico Environment Department45.

At a glance

Building permit
Required, issued by the state Construction Industries Division (no county building dept.)1
Zoning
County zoning unconfirmed; Portales has its own zoning code36
Septic permits
$225 for a conventional system up to 1,000 gpd; apply through NMED7
Owner-builder
A homeowner permit is available for work on the owner's primary residence, subject to state limits8
Septic soils
69.4% of soil has no severe limit for a conventional drain field9
Private well
Obtain an Office of the State Engineer permit before drilling10
Building-permit fees
Variable by construction type, size, materials and cost; ask CID for the project amount11
Subdivision exemption
County-regulated; qualifying land divisions may use a claim-of-exemption process12

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

clovis.ehb@env.nm.gov

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 October 11, 2026.

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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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; covered residential construction requires a permit before work begins unless an exemption applies12. New Mexico lists the 2021 residential and commercial building codes and the 2020 electrical code; the 2024 plumbing and mechanical codes took effect August 1, 2026, with dual permitting through the transition to January 1, 202713. Exempt work includes 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 grade; separate trade permits may still apply14. A property owner may use a homeowner permit only for the owner's primary single-family residence and qualifying appurtenant structures, and the owner must complete the major portion of the work by dollar amount8. Licensed contractors must handle subcontracted work and obtain the appropriate trade permits; homeowner permits cannot cover HVAC, natural-gas or LP-gas installations8.

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) issues building permits for unincorporated land1. CID's homeowner application requires county planning and zoning approval, the Multi-Purpose State Building Application, two complete plan sets and the applicable fee1516. Because county zoning is unconfirmed, ask Roosevelt County Planning/Rural Addressing what approval letter CID needs for the parcel315. CID reports residential processing in 3 to 4 working days and issuance within 5 working days after a complete package arrives15. Building-permit fees depend on construction type, size, materials and cost; ask CID for the project amount11. CID offers online permitting17. The Albuquerque office is at 5500 San Antonio Dr. Suite F, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87109, (505) 222-980018.

Does Roosevelt County have zoning?

We could not confirm a general zoning ordinance for unincorporated Roosevelt County; ask Roosevelt County Planning/Rural Addressing about the parcel's land-use restrictions, setbacks and minimum lot or dwelling size3. Inside Portales, the city has its own zoning code; onsite septic permitting remains with the New Mexico Environment Department (NMED)619. New Mexico allows municipal extraterritorial zoning jurisdiction even where a county has no comprehensive zoning ordinance, so land outside city limits still needs a jurisdiction check20. Ask county Planning/Rural Addressing and Portales which office controls a parcel near the city before relying on an unincorporated address2021.

How do septic permits work in Roosevelt County?

The New Mexico Environment Department (NMED) issues septic permits in Roosevelt County through its local field office4. Obtain the septic permit before installing or modifying a system, or building, altering or moving a dwelling onto a lot that needs one22. The conventional-system permit fee is $225 for systems up to 1,000 gallons per day; applications require ownership, site, floorplan and supporting documents7. Request NMED inspection at least 48 hours (2 business days) ahead and do not cover the system before inspection5. Homeowner installations require a final NMED inspection, and the system needs final department approval before use or occupancy of a new dwelling that requires it2322. About 69.4% of county soil has no severe limitation for a conventional drain field, but each parcel still needs NMED review9. NMED lists the Clovis office at 100 E Manana, Unit 3, Clovis, NM 88101, 575-762-3728; call to confirm the office serving your parcel24.

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 AQ25. The state definition caps a tiny house at 400 square feet excluding lofts25. 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 requirements25. A manufactured home requires a state installation permit and final inspection, while local placement rules can still apply26.

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

  1. Ask Roosevelt County Planning/Rural Addressing about the rural address, floodplain status and the county approval letter CID requires; county zoning remains unconfirmed21315.
  2. Obtain an Office of the State Engineer permit before drilling a private well10.
  3. Submit the septic application to the local NMED field office and obtain approval before building or placing a dwelling that needs an onsite system422.
  4. Submit county approval, the Multi-Purpose State Building Application, two complete plan sets and the fee to CID1516.
  5. Obtain NMDOT approval for new or modified state-highway access, and Floodplain Administrator approval before development in a Special Flood Hazard Area2728.
  6. Keep covered construction visible until inspection approval; homeowner-permit holders must request and pass all required inspections, including the final inspection2930.
  7. Request NMED inspection at least 48 hours ahead and leave the septic system uncovered until inspection5.
  8. Obtain inspector approval for utility connections, NMED final approval for septic use, and a certificate of occupancy before moving into a homeowner-permitted home or addition312232.

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 parcel3334. A private well requires an Office of the State Engineer permit before drilling, and the listed permit expires unless the well is completed within one year10. Soils: 69.4% of the county's soil has no severe limitation for a conventional septic drain field, but the parcel still needs NMED review9. Subdivision: Roosevelt County regulates covered land divisions; its claim-of-exemption process requires supporting documents and a notarized filing, and the County Manager or designee must respond within 30 days12. A qualifying agricultural parcel of at least 35 acres must have been used primarily and continuously for agriculture during the preceding three years12. Access: direct access to a state highway needs a New Mexico Department of Transportation permit before construction or modification27. Taxes: Roosevelt County's effective property tax rate is about 0.4%, with a median bill near $593 a year3536.

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.
  • A Roosevelt County homeowner-permit project requires a certificate of occupancy before the home or addition is occupied; failure to request final inspection can bring a penalty of up to $5003230.
  • Confirm the NMED field office serving your Roosevelt County parcel before submitting a septic application; applications must go to the office with jurisdiction22.

Sources

  1. NM Regulation & Licensing - Construction Industries Division (2026 county census)
  2. Building Permit Guide for Residential Construction, quoted and re-checked
  3. (2026 county census)
  4. Apply for a Permit | New Mexico Environment Department, quoted and re-checked
  5. Apply for a Permit | New Mexico Environment Department, quoted and re-checked
  6. Portales: Ordinance No. 676 — Downtown Zoning Districts (Roosevelt County), quoted and re-checked
  7. Apply for a Permit | New Mexico Environment Department, quoted and re-checked
  8. 14.5.2 NMAC — Permits, quoted and re-checked
  9. 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
  10. Drilling Your Water Well, quoted and re-checked
  11. Construction Industries Forms and Applications Fees, quoted and re-checked
  12. Subdivisions | Roosevelt County, quoted and re-checked
  13. Rules, Laws, and Building Codes, quoted and re-checked
  14. Building Permit Guide for Residential Construction (New Mexico statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  15. Construction Industry Frequently Asked Questions, quoted and re-checked
  16. Construction Industries Division Frequently Asked Questions, quoted and re-checked
  17. Forms and Applications (New Mexico statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  18. New Mexico Construction Industries Division (CID) — Albuquerque Office (rld.nm.gov)
  19. Portales: Apply for a Permit — Onsite Wastewater Program (Roosevelt County), quoted and re-checked
  20. nmlegis.gov (New Mexico statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  21. Roosevelt County Planning / Rural Addressing Department (rooseveltcounty.com)
  22. 20.7.3 NMAC — Liquid Waste Disposal and Treatment, quoted and re-checked
  23. Homeowners Information, quoted and re-checked
  24. New Mexico Environment Department, Liquid Waste Program — Clovis Field Office (env.nm.gov)
  25. 14.7.3 NMAC — 2021 New Mexico Residential Building Code (New Mexico statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  26. 14.12.9 NMAC — Inspections (New Mexico statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  27. 18.31.6 NMAC (New Mexico statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  28. Flooding (New Mexico statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  29. 14.5.3 NMAC Inspections, quoted and re-checked
  30. Homeowner’s Responsibilities for Any Type of Alteration or Construction Made to a Residential Building, quoted and re-checked
  31. 14.5.3.15 NMAC Connection Approval, quoted and re-checked
  32. Homeowner’s Responsibilities for Any Type of Alteration or Construction Made to a Residential Building, quoted and re-checked
  33. Share of years in severe drought: Bolthole Index county data
  34. Annual precipitation: Bolthole Index county data
  35. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  36. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data

Written October 11, 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, Roosevelt County requires a building permit for a home.

RuleRoosevelt CountyCurry CountyDe Baca CountyQuay CountyChaves CountyGuadalupe CountyLea County
Building permitRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequired
County zoningNot publishedNoNot publishedNoYesNot publishedYes
Septic permitsNMEDNM Env. Dept.NMEDNM Env. Dept.NM Env. Dept.NM Env. Dept.NM Env. Dept.

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%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
1,086,715 acWorkable land screen
0.1%Wooded land
0.1 tonsBiomass / forest ac
58.3°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Roosevelt 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 Causey · Village of Dora · Town of Elida · Village of Floyd

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.

Roosevelt County rules

  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Land divisions and subdivisions subject to the Roosevelt County Subdivision Regulations; the official county claim-of-exemption form identifies circumstances in which a land division may proceed without complying with those regulations.

    • A claim of exemption must be completed, signed before a notary, and submitted with legible copies of required supporting documents to the Roosevelt County Manager.
    • The County Manager or designee must notify the claimant in writing within thirty (30) days.
    • If the claim is granted, or if no notice is received within thirty (30) days, the claimant may proceed without complying with the Roosevelt County Subdivision Regulations.
    • If the claim is denied, the claimant may seek subdivision approval or appeal the denial under the Roosevelt County Subdivision Regulations.
    • Listed exemptions include: a parcel of thirty-five (35) acres or larger conveyed within any twelve-month period when the land was used primarily and continuously for agricultural purposes during the preceding three years, with a certified survey; sale or lease of apartments, offices, stores, or similar space within a building; division within municipal boundaries, with a certified survey; severance of only gas, oil, mineral, or water rights; court-ordered division creating no more than one parcel per part; grazing or farming divisions subject to continuing agricultural use and a recorded covenant; boundary alterations that do not increase the number of parcels; one immediate-family-member parcel per tract per immediate family member; divisions created to secure mortgages, liens, or deeds of trust if not seller-financed; conveyance creating no parcel smaller than 140 acres; donations to specified nonprofits, educational institutions, or religious organizations; and conveyance of a single parcel from a tract within a five-year period, subject to the stated exception for previously approved subdivisions and five-year survey filing requirement.
    • The county clerk page states that claims of exemption cost $25.00 even when filed in person.
    • The operative 2017 ordinance PDF was opened but yielded no visible text in the webpage-opening result; therefore no additional 2017-specific plat, deed-filing, fee, threshold, or section requirements are asserted here.

    claim-of-exemption decision period: 30 days (If no notice is received within thirty days, the claimant may proceed under the form's stated condition.) · agricultural parcel exemption threshold: >= 35 acres (The land must have been used primarily and continuously for agricultural purposes during the preceding three years and a certified survey must be attached.) · large-parcel conveyance exemption threshold: >= 140 acres (The conveyance must create no parcel smaller than 140 acres.) · single-parcel conveyance exemption period: 5 years (A second or subsequent conveyance from the same tract within five years is subject to the New Mexico Subdivision Act and the Roosevelt County Subdivision Regulations; a survey must be filed with the county clerk.) · claim of exemption filing fee: 25 USD (The county clerk page states this fee applies even when filed in person.)

    “To claim an exemption from the requirements of the Roosevelt County Subdivision Ordinance, you must complete this form”

New Mexico rules that apply here

  • Building permitRequired

    Homeowner residential building-permit applications in Roosevelt County and elsewhere in New Mexico where the New Mexico Construction Industries Division has jurisdiction.

    • The applicant must obtain planning and zoning approval from the county and submit the approval letter with the permit request.
    • Two complete sets of plans are required, at a recommended minimum scale of one-quarter inch equals one foot, with the information required by the residential permit guide.
    • The completed Multi-Purpose State Building Application and the CID-provided building permit fee are required; CID will not process the request without the fee.
    • CID states that, after receipt of a complete permit package, it will issue the building permit within five working days; residential permits are otherwise stated to be processed in three to four working days.
    • Municipal building-permit or zoning requirements may also apply where applicable.

    plan sets: 2 complete sets · recommended plan scale: 1/4 inch = 1 foot · permit issuance after complete package: 5 working days · residential permit processing time: 3 to 4 working days

    “Subject to the Construction Industries Licensing Act “CILA”, Sections 60-13-3 and Section 60-13-45 NMSA 1978, and its rules, no building or structure shall be erected, constructed, enlarged, altered, repaired, moved, improved, removed, converted or demolished, no electrical wiring, plumbing or mechanical work or LP gas work as defined and described in the applicable New Mexico construction codes for those trades, may be installed, repaired, altered or maintained in or on such building or structure, unless the applicable permit has first been obtained from the appropriate AHJ, unless otherwise provided by statutes or rule.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Residential building-permit applications in Roosevelt County under New Mexico Construction Industries Division jurisdiction.
      “Subject to the Construction Industries Licensing Act “CILA”, Sections 60-13-3 and Section 60-13-45 NMSA 1978, and its rules, no building or structure shall be erected, constructed, enlarged, altered, repaired, moved, improved, removed, converted or demolished, no electrical wiring, plumbing or mechanical work or LP gas work as defined and described in the applicable New Mexico construction codes for those trades, may be installed, repaired, altered or maintained in or on such building or structure, unless the applicable permit has first been obtained from the appropriate AHJ, unless otherwise provided by statutes or rule.”
    • Required — Residential construction regulated by the New Mexico Residential Code, including construction in Roosevelt County.
      “unless the applicable permit has first been obtained from the appropriate AHJ, unless otherwise provided by statutes or rule.”
    • Required — 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.
      “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.”
  • 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.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Conditional — A property owner’s construction or alteration of the owner’s primary residence, including qualifying single-family appurtenant structures, in Roosevelt County under New Mexico CID jurisdiction.
      “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.”
  • 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 — New Mexico construction, including Roosevelt County, subject to the listed state building codes.
      “2021 New Mexico Commercial Building Code NMAC 14.7.2 2021 New Mexico Residential Building Code NMAC 14.7.3 [...] 2020 New Mexico Electrical Code NMAC 14.10.4”
    • 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.”
  • 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 CID.lnspection@state.nm.us or call 505-222-9813 or 877-243-0979”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Residential construction performed under a New Mexico homeowner permit in Roosevelt County.
      “I understand that I must call for and pass all required inspections, including a final Inspection, in order to obtain a Certificate of Occupancy.”
    • Required — Construction work subject to the New Mexico commercial, residential, electrical, mechanical, or plumbing codes.
      “The following inspections are required unless otherwise indicated or as determined in the discretion of the TBC or CBO.”
  • Certificate of occupancyRequired

    Buildings or portions of buildings on which construction has been undertaken.

    • An approved final inspection may be used where applicable instead of a certificate of occupancy.
    • All required inspections must be completed and the work approved before a certificate of occupancy is issued.
    • Temporary certificates may be issued for 30 days or longer when approved and when life, safety, and health are not adversely affected; extensions may reach 12 months for good cause.

    temporary certificate initial period: >= 30 days (subject to TBC or CBO approval and life, safety, and health protection) · temporary certificate maximum extension: 12 months (good cause shown)

    “No building, or portion thereof, on which construction has been undertaken shall be occupied until the appropriate inspector has issued a C/O or an approved final inspection, as applicable.”
    One more reviewed finding 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
  • 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 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.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Homeowner-installed onsite liquid-waste systems.
      “Before covering the system – Final inspection (required) [...] All Homeowner installations require an NMED final inspection.”
    • 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.”
  • Well permitRequired

    Drilling a water well in Roosevelt County under New Mexico Office of the State Engineer requirements.

    • A permit to drill must be obtained from the Office of the State Engineer before drilling.
    • If the groundwater source is unclear, an exploratory permit may first be obtained; if the well produces water, a permit to use the water must then be obtained.
    • Domestic wells are allowed by state law unless prohibited by a local ordinance.
    • Domestic use includes household purposes, non-commercial watering of domesticated animals, and non-commercial irrigation of lawn, garden, trees, or landscaping up to one acre.
    • Permits may also be obtained for drinking and sanitary purposes at governmental or commercial facilities and for livestock purposes.
    • When drilling on land not owned by the applicant, written authorization must be submitted with the well permit application.
    • The listed permits automatically expire unless the well is completed within one year after permit issuance.
    • After expiration, a new district-office application and an additional filing fee are required before drilling.
    • Wells for purposes other than those described require a permit issued after the permit application is advertised; those permits may allow a year or more to complete the well.

    domestic non-commercial irrigation area: <= 1 acre · permit completion deadline: 1 year after issuance (listed permits automatically expire if the well is not completed) · additional filing fee after permit expiration: true (a new application and additional filing fee are required)

    “Before you have a well drilled, you must first obtain a permit to drill from the Office of the State Engineer.”
  • 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.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Conditional — Connection or reconnection of plumbing, mechanical, and electrical systems to utility or energy sources.
      “No person shall connect, or reconnect, any plumbing system to an energy or water source or to a sewer system until the AHJ or appropriate inspector has given approval to do so.”
  • 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”
  • 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 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.

  • County-wide zoning — Countywide zoning in Roosevelt County.
  • Local zoning — Local zoning within Roosevelt County, including incorporated municipalities and the City of Portales extraterritorial zoning area.
  • Zoning districts — Published zoning districts in Roosevelt County.
  • Minimum dwelling size — Minimum dwelling size requirements in Roosevelt County.
  • Minimum lot size — Minimum lot size requirements in Roosevelt County.
6 more unanswered
  • Setbacks
  • Lot coverage
  • 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 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). 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 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.

How Roosevelt compares in New Mexico

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