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1. When do I need a building permit?

Whenever you are performing any of the following activities:

• New Construction – Residential or Commercial
• Remodeling Work – Residential or Commercial
• Additions to a Structure – Residential or Commercial
• Renovations or Repairs to a Structure – Residential or Commercial
• Fences Greater than Four 4 Feet in Height
• New Sidewalks and Access Cuts
• Demolition Work
• Excavation Work
• Asphalt / Overlay
• Roof Overlay, Re-Roof and or Structural Roof Renovations

2. How soon can I start work?

Work may be started when you have complied with all plan specifications, have complied with licensing requirements when necessary, have paid your fees, and have secured a building permit through the City of Gallup Planning and Zoning Department.

3. When is my project inspected?

You must call for an inspection at the following stages:

• Footing/Foundation Inspection. Prior to pouring concrete (reinforcement must be in place).
• Concrete Slab / Under Floor Inspection. Prior to pouring concrete. Be sure to call for plumbing and/or electrical inspection(s) prior to your footing and foundation inspection.
• Framing Inspection. After framing is completed and prior to sheetrock installation. Plumbing top out, mechanical and electrical rough-in inspections must be completed prior to framing inspection.
• Inspection required after lath or gypsum board is installed. This must be done prior to stucco installation.
• Final Inspection. Please call for plumbing, mechanical and electrical final inspections prior to your general construction final inspection.

NOTE: The City inspector will not conduct any general construction inspections until the plumbing, electrical and mechanical inspections have been passed.

Failure to obtain all required inspections will result in the permit becoming null and void.

4. What are the most common problems and how can I avoid them?

• Using unlicensed contractors for work. There are numerous liability issues for the owner should something go wrong in this situation. Using a licensed contractor ensures the use of licensed journeymen as required by law.
• Failure to conform to all applicable codes. The State International Construction codes, in addition to local codes and ordinances, shall be utilized for all building permits issued.
• Failure to pay all applicable permit costs. City ordinances determine the fees due for your project. Payment is required for all permits. There is an additional charge for Plan Checking and a Zone Check Fee included with the Permit Fee.
  
• Red Tagging. The Building Inspector will stop work when the project is not in compliance or if the required permit(s) are missing on a job. You'll avoid a work stoppage by complying with the appropriate codes. Any project that has been red tagged shall be assessed a "double fee" when a permit is acquired.
  
• Non-compliance with zoning ordinances. All permits must comply with the city zoning ordinances. Call ahead to learn about specific requirements and avoid disappointment.

5. What do I need to install a sign?

Please complete and submit a sign permit application. Once your application has been approved, your sign must be installed by a licensed New Mexico contractor.

Download the sign permit form