Electrical Permits and Inspections

A separate permit is required for all electrical work where new wiring, devices or equipment are being installed. The building permit does not cover electrical work being done on a project. A permit must be obtained before starting the installation except for emergency work for restoring power. For emergency work a permit must be obtained the next working day.

Electrical Permits

Permits may be issued to electrical contractors licensed in New Mexico or homeowners wishing to do electrical work to their primary residence. To obtain a homeowner’s permit the homeowner must pass the homeowner’s exam before a permit can be issued. Homeowner’s exams are given weekday mornings at 9:30 a.m. at the Electrical Inspections office.

Obtaining Electrical Permits

Start by assuring your project is within the jurisdiction of the City of Albuquerque. To determine if your project is within the jurisdiction of the City of Albuquerque click here.

The following information is required:

• An accurate count of the number of devices and equipment that will be installed. (Receptacles, switches, light fixtures, motors, panelboards, meters, low voltage systems, low voltage devices, etc.)
• The correct address of the job site including building and suite or unit designations.
• The name of the property owner or party who is responsible for the utility bill.

If the installation is over 50 KVA three phase or 200 amps single phase, plans must be submitted that are prepared by a New Mexico licensed electrical engineer (PE).*

Bring the above information to the Electrical Inspection Section office at the address shown below and complete an electrical permit application form. Once the permit fees have been paid an inspection may be scheduled.

*Electrical drawings for installations that are part of a project that has a building permit associated with it must be submitted with the rest of the plans for plan review.

Electrical Inspections

All electrical installations must be inspected before covering the installation. To request an inspection call the phone number listed below the day before an inspection is needed.

The Building Safety division is located on the Garden Level of the Plaza Del Sol building at 600 Second Street NW Suite 190. The office is open during regular business hours Monday through Friday. For more information, contact the Electrical Inspection Section at 505-924-3311.

Applicable Codes