Excavation permits and rules in New Mexico

Anyone digging in New Mexico has to notify New Mexico 811 before work starts. Call 811 at least 2 working days before digging.^1-3

Text of the law

The notice period under NMSA 1978 62-14-1 to 62-14-10; 18.60.5 NMAC: Two working days (not counting the day of call) before the start of the excavation.^1-3

New Mexico licenses contractors through the Construction Industries Division, New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department. A license is needed unless the work is minor, done one project at a time and paid no more than $7,200 a year. GS-8 earthmoving, excavating and ditching classification covers cutting, filling, excavating, grading, trenching, backfilling and boring; farm and ranch earthwork is exempt.^4-5

Text of the law

Handyman exemption only for casual, minor or inconsequential work not exceeding $7,200 compensation a year, one project at a time (14.6.2.8 NMAC).^4-5

A stormwater permit is needed at 1 acre, or less than 1 acre if part of a larger common plan of development or sale that will disturb 1 acre or more. Coverage is under the EPA Construction General Permit, permit no. NMR100000 (EPA is the permitting authority in New Mexico except Indian country).^6-8