Albuquerque’s Planning Department is the main starting point for building permits, development review, zoning, and inspections. The Building Safety Division reviews construction plans and issues building and trade permits, while Development Review Services handles land-development applications. Most applications are submitted through ABQ-PLAN, the City’s online system for permit applications, plan uploads, payments, status tracking, and planning cases.
Land use and development are governed by Albuquerque’s Integrated Development Ordinance (IDO). The IDO establishes zoning districts, permitted uses, development standards, and review procedures, while separate overlay zones can add requirements for airport protection, neighborhood character, historic resources, or protected views. Commercial development and other larger projects may also require site-plan approval before or alongside building permitting.
Historic properties have an additional review path. Exterior alterations, additions, new construction, demolition, fences, and certain signs within Historic Protection Overlay zones generally require a Certificate of Appropriateness from the Landmarks Commission or authorized staff. Floodplain location can also materially affect permitting: development, grading, paving, additions, and new construction within designated Special Flood Hazard Areas require Floodplain Development review.
Work within streets, sidewalks, bike lanes, and other public right-of-way is regulated separately by the Department of Municipal Development. Excavation, barricades, storage pods, and other activities affecting public space can require right-of-way permits. Applicants can begin with the City’s online planning and permitting resources and then confirm zoning, historic, floodplain, and right-of-way requirements for the site.