Free Casita Construction Plans:
City of Albuquerque

Step-by-step Approval Process

To request a building permit for the construction of a casita, follow these steps:

Step 1:  Submit a Site Plan

1. Create or update “Site Plan.” This document should include the following information :
   • The current location of the property and the existing residence
   • Any restrictions applicable to the property
   • The locations of all existing structures on the property
   • The proposed location and dimensions of the new ADU / Casita
   • Requirements for off-street parking for your vehicle
2. Choose the casita construction plans you desire from the choices provided above. Or contact us if you would like to customize the above plans.
3. Opting for a pitched roof? Ensure that you possess the latest truss detail drawings from the supplier. These drawings should be approved and marked by a licensed structural engineer in New Mexico.
4. Get a new Grading and Drainage Plan
5. Ensure that you complete all necessary tasks to inform the public about important information. This involves displaying a sign and sending an email to the Neighborhood Association.
6. For additional information on posting signs and obtaining email addresses of Neighborhood Associations from the Office of Neighborhood Coordination, please refer to the Public Notice page. You will also find the requisite forms that must be completed for public notices.
7. Submit an application for a Site Plan – Administrative by email to plndrs@cabq.gov or reach out to us at any time.
8. Download the necessary forms for a Development Review Application and Site Plan Checklist.

Step 2: Submit a Building Permit

1. To get a permit, you have two options: apply online or go in person to the Building Safety counter located at 600 2nd St. NW in suite 190. You’ll find the counter on the ground floor of the of the Plaza Del Sol Building.
2. Ensure you have all project information ready and upload the pre-selected plans for your project.
3. Make the payment for all applicable fees online or at the Treasury Department located on the ground floor of the Plaza Del Sol building.
4. Note: Besides your construction permit, you will need trade permits for mechanical, plumbing, and electrical tasks.

Step 3:  Upload Permit Package

Once you have successfully paid the plan review fees, you will receive an email invitation to upload your plans. For more detailed instructions, refer to our instructional video titled “Uploading Your Electronic Plan Sets to ePlan,” available on CABQ Building Safety page featuring tutorial videos or call us at 505.705.1078 for more information.

Step 4:  Make Corrections, If Needed

In case corrections are required, you will receive an email outlining the necessity to upload revised plans, drawings, and documents. For guidance and further details on uploading your documents, refer to the ePlan User Manual and CABQ Building Safety instructional videos page.

Step 5:  Pay for Building Permit

Once your permit is ready, you will be sent an email containing details on the applied permit fees and instructions on obtaining your printed permit. Additionally, you will have the option to print the approved plans, drawings, and documents for use at the project site.

Step 6:  Download and Print Approved Building Plan Set

Be sure to download the approved plans and have a printed set available on-site for inspections. If you require assistance, feel free to contact the Building Safety permitting counter at 505-924-3320 or Martinez Casitas at 505-705-1078.

Step 7:  Complete Inspections

During your construction project, there are multiple times when inspections are needed. The types of inspections you need will depend on your specific project. Some of the inspections you will need include checking the foundation, the framing, insulation, electrical work, plumbing/mechanical systems, and a final inspection. To schedule an inspection, you can visit the website of the Building Safety Division or call the Building Safety permitting counter at 505-924-3320 or Martinez Casitas at 505-705-1078 for more details.

After all the necessary checks are done, your permit will be ready for construction.