Engineering Department

The City of Carlsbad Engineering Department serves as the primary execution arm for the city’s physical development, distinct from regulatory planning. Responsible for the comprehensive life cycle management of the city’s Capital Improvement Projects (CIP) and public facilities, our involvement begins at the conceptual phase, overseeing the technical design and engineering specifications for civil infrastructure—including roadways, drainage, and utilities—as well as vertical construction for new municipal buildings. Once a project moves to the field, our role shifts to active construction management. We supervise contractors, manage budgets, and ensure that every street paved and every foundation poured adheres to strict engineering standards. Ultimately, the goal is to deliver finished, high-quality assets that serve the Carlsbad community for decades.

Fees

Contacts

Name Position Extension Email
Amber Crow Building Permit Technician 3223 adcrow@cityofcarlsbadnm.com
Patrick McMannus Project Manager 3234 pmmcmanus@cityofcarlsbadnm.com
Marcelo Paulik Plumbing and Mechanical Inspector 3227 mdpaulik@cityofcarlsbadnm.com
Tim O'Dell Electrical Inspector 3253 trodell@cityofcarlsbadnm.com
Mark Woody Electrical Inspector 3279 cmwoody@cityofcarlsbadnm.com

Building, Mechanical, Plumbing and Electrical Permits

A building, mechanical, plumbing and/or electrical permit is required prior to the start of construction or work. Contractors must be properly licensed in the State of New Mexico and have a City of Carlsbad Business Registration.

Note: Prior to hiring a contractor please contact us to verify that they are properly licensed. Do not hire an unlicensed contractor!

Fee Schedule & Approvals

  • Sewer Tap: $4.00
  • Curb Cut: $5.00 (Contact Building Official: 575-628-1292)
  • Encroachment Permit: $10.00 (Contact Public Works: 575-234-7970)
  • Signs (excluding copy replacement): Based on construction cost
  • Fences/Walls: Based on construction cost

*For fees based on construction cost, please contact the Permit Technician for a fee schedule breakdown.

The City of Carlsbad currently enforces the following codes:

  • 2021 International Building Code / 2021 International Residential Building Code
  • 2021 International Energy Conservation Code
  • 2021 Uniform Mechanical Code / 2021 Uniform Plumbing Code
  • 2020 National Electrical Code

Design Criteria:

  • Wind Speed: Risk Cat I (105) | Cat II (115) | Cat III & IV (120)
  • Ground Snow Loads: 5
  • Frost Depth: 12"

Monthly Reports & Portals