Re-Roofing in New Mexico: Permits, Licenses and Inspections

In New Mexico, every new roof, every re-roof and every roof coating needs a building permit and inspections. State rules require at least a decking inspection after the old roof comes off, and a final inspection when the roof is done. Only a licensed contractor, or a homeowner who qualifies for a homeowner permit, can get the permit.

What the state rules require

• All new roof installations and re-roofs require building permits and inspections.
• All roof coating applications also require permits and inspections.
• Inspections include, at a minimum, the roof deck once the existing roof is removed, and a final inspection of the finished roof.
• The permit must be displayed on the site where the work is done.

Check the contractor's license

The Construction Industries Division licenses contractors. Under state rules, GS-21 is the classification for roof systems, and work outside a license's classification is a violation. You can look up a license through the PSI license search, which the Regulation and Licensing Department links from its verify-a-license page.

Homeowner permits

A homeowner permit is limited to a single-family home that is your primary residence. You must do the major portion of the work, measured by dollar amount. You may get only one homeowner permit in 12 months, and the permit is voided if the house is marketed for sale during construction.

City rules to know

• Albuquerque requires permits for re-roofing.
• Rio Rancho requires a permit for all re-roofing before work starts. Contractors need a state license and a city business license. The city lists design criteria of 115 mph ultimate wind speed and a 20 pound minimum flat roof snow load.
• Santa Fe requires permits for roofing. Exterior work in its historic districts must be pre-approved by the Historic Preservation Division.
• Farmington requires permits for roofs and re-roofs, obtained in person, and lists a 20 psf minimum roof live load.
• Roswell and Hobbs both require re-roofing permits.

Why the timing matters

The National Weather Service says the North American Monsoon usually runs from mid-June to late September, with downburst winds, lightning and flash floods. It also reports that New Mexico averaged 150 severe hail reports a year over the 10 years ending in 2024. Plan a tear-off so the deck inspection can happen and the roof can be closed up quickly.