Albuquerque Zoning & Land Use Guide
Editor-verified· 2026-03-22
Last updated: Verified:
Key Zoning Facts
Regulatory Layers That Apply in Albuquerque
Your property is subject to ALL of these regulatory layers. Each one can impose additional requirements beyond the others.
Federal
- FEMA Flood Zones: Applicable
- View FEMA Flood Map
County — Bernalillo County
- Role: Property records, tax assessment, unincorporated area planning
City / Municipal
The city's zoning ordinance, building codes, and local permits form the primary layer of land-use regulation for your property.
Overlay Districts
No overlay districts identified.
Private Restrictions
- HOA / CC&Rs common: Yes
- Check HOA CC&Rs for additional restrictions.
Primary Zoning Districts
R-1Single-Family Residential
- Min Lot
- 5,000 sq ft
- Max Height
- 26 ft
- Front Setback
- 15 ft
- Side Setback
- 5 ft
- Rear Setback
- 15 ft
R-MLMulti-Family Residential - Low
- Min Lot
- 3,000 sq ft per unit
- Max Height
- 35 ft
- Front Setback
- 15 ft
- Side Setback
- 5 ft
- Rear Setback
- 15 ft
MX-MMixed Use - Medium
- Min Lot
- None
- Max Height
- 45 ft
- Front Setback
- 0 ft
- Side Setback
- 0 ft
- Rear Setback
- 10 ft
ADU Rules in Albuquerque
ADUs:Allowed
- Max Size
- 750 sq ft
- Max Height
- 18 ft
- Rear Setback
- 5 ft
- Side Setback
- 5 ft
- Parking
- No additional parking required
- Owner Occupancy
- Not required
- Permit Timeline
- 4-8 weeks
Permit Costs & Timelines
Permit Costs & Timelines
Specific permit fee schedules for Albuquerque are available from the local planning department. Fees vary based on project type, scope, and valuation.
Check Albuquerque permit fees →Official Sources
City-specific
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build an ADU in Albuquerque?
Yes. Albuquerque's Integrated Development Ordinance (IDO) allows accessory dwelling units in most residential zones. ADUs may be attached or detached and must comply with size and setback requirements.
What zones allow multi-family housing in Albuquerque?
Multi-family housing is permitted in R-ML, R-MH, and mixed-use zones such as MX-M and MX-H under the Integrated Development Ordinance.
Disclaimer: The information on this website is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. Zoning codes and building regulations change frequently. Always verify current requirements with your local planning department and building authority before making any decisions.