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City of Rio Rancho (NM)

New Mexico Authority Having Jurisdiction Solar permitting requirements
NEC Code Version2020
Fire Code Version2018 Building Code
Wet Stamps RequiredDigital Structural,Digital Electrical
Fire Setback Enforced1

Codes

NEC Code Version
2020
Fire Code Version
2018 Building Code
Code List

2021 INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE

2021 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE

2021 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE

2021 INTERNATIONAL ENERGY CONSERVATION CODE

2020 NATIONAL ELECTRIC CODE

2021 UNIFORM PLUMBING CODE

2021 UNIFORM MECHANICAL CODE 

ASCE Code Specification
ASCE 7-16

SolarAPP+ & submittal

How Many Plansets Required
1
Revision Required
1
Rough Inspection
None
New Planset Required For Module Swap
0

Stamps

Ee Stamp Required On SLD
Yes - MSP 200A+
Wet Stamps Required
Digital Structural,Digital Electrical
Structural Calculations Required
Yes
Ee Stamp Notes

EE stamp required for 225A or larger service - EE digital stamps on corresponding PV pages.

Stamp Location On Plans
Unspecified
Date On Stamps
Expiration Date

Fire setbacks

Fire Setback Enforced
1
Setback Notes

Standard

Structural & loads

Wind Speed
115
Wind Notes

Exposure Category C

Snow Load
20
Reducible Snow Load Allowed
1
Max Attachment Spacing
48
Structural Notes

  Not required Unless


Structural analysis must be performed by a professional engineer licensed in the state of New Mexico in order to determine if the roof structure is capable of supporting the added loads of a solar PV electric module when any of the following occur.

 (a)The total added dead load of the array is greater than five lbs. / sq. ft. on roof construction. 

(b)The total added point load of the array is greater than 45 lbs. on roof construction.

 (c) The total added dead load exceeds 200 lbs. on any one truss, rafter or roof joist.

(d) The mounting of the system is of a unique roof mounted design.

(e) The roof structure contains over-spanned trusses, rafters or roof joists

Electrical

AC Disconnect Required
Yes
Electrical Load Calcs Required
Derates
Allowed POI
Meter Adapter,PV Breaker,Line Side Taps,Load Side Taps
Panel Schedule Required
Partial Home Backup
Temperature Rating
90
De Rating Ampacity
0.91
BOS Restrictions

For TAPs we need to make sure that Disconnects on the 3L are identified with a Dotted Box Labeled "Interior Garage or Home". This also needs to be shown on the Site Plan and labeled with a leader "Interior Garage or Home." EXCEPTION: This is not needed if MSP is on the exterior of the home only if MSP is interior and TAP is being used with POI.

Battery / ESS

Unique Battery Placards Needed
0
ESS Notes

1. Combining Outputs

  • When using Powerwall+, combine outputs into a generation (gen) panel.
  • Use a single disconnect switch labeled "PV/ESS Disconnect."
  • Do not use a "Generation Disco."

2. Powerwall 3 Rapid Shutdown (if installed indoors)

  • Install the rapid shutdown device outside in a location that is easy to access.
  • Make sure this is shown on both the site map and line diagram.

3. Tesla Equipment Information (Site Plans & Diagrams)

  • On all site plans, line diagrams, and title blocks:
  • Show the Tesla inverter and battery model numbers next to the equipment.
  • Add model numbers to the info box and labels on the diagrams.

Model Numbers for Tesla Equipment

  • Tesla PW3 11.5kW Inverter: 1707000-XX-Y
  • Tesla PW3 7.6kW Inverter: 1538000-XX-Y
  • Tesla PW+: 1850000-XX-Y
  • Tesla PW2 13.5kW Inverter: 1092170-XX-Y

Keep this information clear and included in all necessary documents.

Separate ESS Disconnect Required
ESS Disconnect
ESS Elevation Detail Required
No

Plan set

Plan Set Requirements

For TAPs we need to make sure that Disconnects on the 3L are identified with a Dotted Box Labeled "Interior Garage or Home". This also needs to be shown on the Site Plan and labeled with a leader "Interior Garage or Home." EXCEPTION: This is not needed if MSP is on the exterior of the home only if MSP is interior and TAP is being used with POI.

Site
  • If the PV SYSTEM Box showing KWDC in red and KWAC in black is present, remove it entirely from the plan set.
  • These boxes are not needed and should not be included.
  • For TAPs we need to make sure that Disconnects on the 3L are identified with a Dotted Box Labeled "Interior Garage or Home". This also needs to be shown on the Site Plan and labeled with a leader "Interior Garage or Home." EXCEPTION: This is not needed if MSP is on the exterior of the home only if MSP is interior and TAP is being used with POI.
Site Notes

Important

  • If batteries are installed in a garage, the rapid shutdown switch must be installed outside.
  • See the reference photo in the provided files for correct placement.
  • PNM - Public Service Company of New Mexico has specific requirements for plans. See the page for detailed information.
Attachment Detail
  • Stagger attachments to avoid structural engineering issues.
  • The mounting detail page must be site-specific and show panel layout, railing, and roof penetration locations.
  • Do not use generic examples for mounting details.
  • Maximum attachment spacing for Rockit Slide is 48 inches.
Attachment Detail Notes


Electrical Diagram
  • Add (240V) to the end of the inverter description. This applies to both inverters and microinverters for all projects. Example: SOLAREDGE SE38000H-USRGM SI1.
  • Ensure this is included on the Single Line Diagram (SLD).
  • For line side taps, the AC disconnect must be grouped with the main service panel and located within 5 feet.
Custom Placards Required
0

Ground mount

Ground Mount Fencing Required
Mesh/Scrim
Compiled from public records, 2026. Requirements change with code cycles and local amendments. Verify with the City of Rio Rancho (NM) building department before you rely on this, and treat it as a research head start, not a ruling. Getting quotes? Run them through the quote checker first.