Albuquerque Allows Duplexes, Townhomes in Residential Areas Since 2018

The Integrated Development Ordinance, adopted in 2017 and effective since May 2018, replaced the previous Comprehensive City Zoning Code and now sets Albuquerque's zoning and development rules. It permits duplexes, townhomes and apartments in all residential zones within one quarter mile of Main Streets such as Central Avenue and 4th Street, as well as Premium Transit areas including ART station locations. Apartments in these zones have no height limits under the ordinance.

Effects on Local Property Development

Parking requirements have been reduced by 50 percent in Urban Centers and Activity Centers and by 60 percent in Premium Transit areas. Casitas, which are small homes or accessory dwelling units, are now permitted on existing residential properties. These provisions apply across the city's 25 total zone classifications, which include 7 residential zones, 5 commercial zones, 4 mixed-use zones and 2 industrial zones. Property owners near the specified corridors can pursue additional housing units on their land without the prior restrictions on building type or parking supply.

Residents seeking to add units to their properties or review development proposals in their neighborhoods can check current zoning through the Interactive IDO Zoning Map and the Zone Atlas. These tools show whether a specific address falls within the one quarter mile distance of Main Streets or Premium Transit areas where the expanded residential options apply. The changes mean that new housing applications in qualifying locations follow the updated standards rather than the older code.

Accessing Information and Determinations

For questions about zoning or land use determinations, residents contact the Planning Department at (505) 924-3860 and select the Zoning and Land Use option, or send an email to abctoz@cabq.gov. The ordinance has been in place since May 2018, so development applications submitted after that date operate under its provisions. People considering building or renovating near Central Avenue, 4th Street or ART stations can use the online maps first to confirm applicable rules before submitting plans.

The policy affects daily decisions for homeowners and developers by expanding where certain housing types are allowed and lowering the parking spaces required in designated centers. Residents outside the one quarter mile zones continue to follow the standards of their specific residential classification. The Planning Department provides the primary channel for confirming how the rules apply to any individual property in Albuquerque.