Albuquerque Water & Sewer Connection Fees Guide
Albuquerque, New Mexico property owners and contractors must follow city and utility rules when applying for water and sewer service connections, paying connection fees, and complying with inspections. This guide explains who sets fees, how to pay, what permits and forms you may need, and the enforcement and appeal process in Albuquerque, New Mexico. It covers typical steps for new builds, remodels, and service changes, plus common violations and practical action items to complete a lawful connection.
Penalties & Enforcement
The City and its utility authority enforce connection standards and may issue orders to halt work or require corrective actions; specific monetary fines for connection violations are not specified on the cited municipal code page[1]. Inspectors may issue stop-work orders, notice to correct, or refer matters for civil or criminal enforcement where unauthorized work creates health or safety risks. Appeals and reviews are generally handled through administrative review or municipal court processes; time limits for appeals are determined by the enforcement notice and relevant municipal procedures.
- Non-monetary sanctions: stop-work orders, correction notices, mandatory repairs, connection suspensions.
- Court actions and civil enforcement for continuing breaches.
- Enforcer: City/utility inspectors, code enforcement officers, and the utility authority; complaints go to the Utility or Code Enforcement office.
- Monetary fines: not specified on the cited page for connection fees or penalties.
- Appeals: administrative review or municipal court; check the enforcement notice for exact time limits.
Applications & Forms
- Connection permit application: builders or property owners must submit a water/sewer service application to the utility authority or city permitting office.
- Fee schedules and impact fees: set by the utility authority or city finance; see the utility fee schedule for current amounts.
- Deadlines: submit permit and fee payment before final inspection or service activation; project timelines vary by permit type.
- Submission: online portal or in-person at the city permitting counter or utility customer service.
Common Violations
- Unauthorized connections or tapping into mains without permit.
- Failure to pay connection fees before final service activation.
- Work performed without required inspections or approvals.
FAQ
- Who sets water and sewer connection fees in Albuquerque?
- The municipal utility authority and city finance set fee schedules; specifics are published by the utility authority and the municipal code provides enabling authority and enforcement framework.
- How do I pay connection fees?
- Pay online via the utility authority's customer portal or at the city permits counter when submitting the connection application; follow the fee schedule for required payment methods.
- What happens if I connect without a permit?
- Enforcement may include stop-work orders, required removal or repair, and referral for civil or criminal penalties depending on the severity; monetary fines are not specified on the cited municipal code page.
How-To
- Confirm the required permits with the city permitting office.
- Obtain the utility connection application and calculate fees using the utility fee schedule.
- Submit the application and pay fees through the utility portal or permitting counter.
- Schedule required inspections and complete any corrective work directed by inspectors.
- Request final approval or appeal enforcement decisions within the time period stated on the notice.
Key Takeaways
- Always verify permits and fees before beginning connection work.
- Contact the utility authority or city permitting office early to avoid delays.
Help and Support / Resources
- Albuquerque Bernalillo County Water Utility Authority - Customer Service
- City of Albuquerque - Permitting and Code Enforcement
- Albuquerque Municipal Code (Municode)