Can you build an ADU in Albuquerque, NM?
The city expressly allows casitas in R-A, R-1, R-T, and R-ML subject to dimensional rules, one parking space, and an administrative site plan plus building permit. Overlay areas like CPO-3 and CPO-12 can tighten the rules.
Confidence: high · Last researched May 2026
Accessory Dwelling Unit (Casita) rules
Casitas are allowed in R-A, R-1, R-T, and R-ML, subject to dimensional, placement, parking, and approval requirements. In 2023, zoning changed to allow casitas in R-1 neighborhoods throughout the city.
- Maximum square footage: 750 sq. ft.
- Minimum setback: 5 feet on either side or rear
- Corner lot street-side setback: same minimum street-side setback as the main house
- Placement: behind the rear wall of the main house
- Only 1 casita is allowed per lot in R-A and R-1 zones
- A casita cannot take up more than 25% of the side and rear yards combined
- A casita cannot be taller than the main house on the lot
- A passage at least 5 feet wide must be provided at some point for access
- The exterior color of the casita must be the same or similar to the color of the main house
- One off-street parking space must be provided
- Requires Site Plan - Administrative submission through ABQ-PLAN and then a building permit
Dimensional standards in Albuquerque, NM
| R-1 — Lot size, minimum | 3,500 sq. ft. |
| R-1 — Front setback, minimum | 10 ft. |
| R-1 — Side setback, minimum | Interior: 5 ft.; Street side of corner lots: 10 ft. |
| R-1 — Rear setback, minimum | 10 ft. |
| R-A, R-1, R-T, R-ML — Accessory dwelling unit minimum setback | 5 feet on either side or rear |
| Sawmill/Wells Park – CPO-12 in R-1 — Minimum lot size for casita eligibility | 7,000 sq. ft. |
Related questions
Are ADUs allowed in Albuquerque, NM?
Casitas are allowed in R-A, R-1, R-T, and R-ML, subject to dimensional, placement, parking, and approval requirements. In 2023, zoning changed to allow casitas in R-1 neighborhoods throughout the city.
Full investor analysis
You've seen the general rule. The full Albuquerque, NM report shows which districts allow ADUs by-right vs. by special permit, the approval path and timeline, and the overlay/flood constraints that quietly kill ADU projects here. First town report is free.
Get the full Albuquerque, NM report free →More about Albuquerque, NM zoning
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This summary is AI-generated from public municipal sources and is not legal, engineering, or land-use advice. Always verify zoning with Albuquerque, NM officials before making decisions.
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