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County Assessor's Office

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1. Why does the Taos County Assessor value my property?

In order to fund local city government, county government, schools, police, fire, emergency services, etc., each property owner pays taxes based on the value of the property owned by him/her.

2. When are the “Notice of Valuations” mailed?

The Assessor is required to mail “Notices of Valuations” on April 1st of each year, unless an extension is deemed necessary and is granted by the State Property Tax Division.

3. Who is eligible for the “Head of Family Exemption” and how is it applied?

The “Head of Family” exemption may be granted upon application to an individual New Mexico Resident who is either: (1) Married, (2) Widow or Widower, (3) Head of Household, or (4) A Single person, provided it is the primary home and they reside in the home. The amount of the exemption is $2,000.00 and is applied against the net taxable value of property. One per household.

4. How is the “Veterans Exemption Status” determined and how does it affect property taxes?

The New Mexico Veteran’s Service Commission determines all eligibilities and issues a certificate to all qualifying veterans. A maximum amount of $4,000.00 may be claimed against a property’s value and or a motor vehicle’s license fee. (See Veterans Exemption on page 4, for the allowable amounts) The certificate should be taken to the Motor Vehicles Department first, if claimant desires to use the exemption in the Assessor’s Office and the Motor Vehicle Department both. The amount the Motor Vehicle Department determines is used to pay license fees and is then divided by a 4.5 factor. The amount is then subtracted from the allowable amount, and the remaining amount may then be claimed against property taxes at the Taos County Assessor’s Office. If the entire allowable amount is claimed at the Taos County Assessor’s Office it will not be necessary to claim the exemption every year, it will automatically be applied every year. It is only necessary for the veteran to present the certificate if there is a change of property ownership or if they choose to use a portion of the allowable amount at the Motor Vehicle Department. The deadline for claiming the veteran’s exemption is 30 days after the Notice of Valuation is mailed of each year.

5. How can I find out if any organization warrants an exemption for property owned by it?

State law requires non-governmental entities to meet certain requirements before an exemption is granted for property taxes. Included in these requirements are:

1) Primary use of land or improvements, regardless of the character of the owner, is of charitable, religious, or educational benefit to the public.

2) There must be no profit derived from the use of the property. The burden of proof is on the property owner to document eligibility on an annual basis. If you feel your property may qualify, an application must be obtained from the Taos County Assessor’s Office by February 28th, of each year.

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County Treasurer's Office

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1. Where should I mail my payment?

Taos County Treasurer
105 Albright Street, Suite G
Taos, New Mexico 87571

2. When are property tax mailed?

November 1st of each year.

3. Who do I make my check payable to?

Taos County Treasurer

4. When are they due?

First half due November 10th and will become delinquent if not received by December 10th. Second half due April 10th and will become delinquent if not received by May 10th.

5. Where is the legal description of my property located?

Your legal description is located on the upper left of the tax bill.

6. Where is my owner number on my tax bill?

Your owner number is located on the upper right side on the tax bill.

7. What are your hours?

8:00 am to 4:00 pm

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Planning Department

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1. How can I obtain/verify an address?

Please reference the attached document which contains information on how to verify and/or obtain an address. Rural Addressing FAQ's

2. How can I obtain a copy of the Subdivision Regulations? Is there a fee?

Taos County Subdivision Regulations can be obtained by request through the Planning Department or by clicking the link below. Please be advised that this document is PDF file and may take a few minutes to download. If you are unable to download the regulations and would still like a copy, please send a check or money order in the amount of $30.00 made payable to the Taos County Treasurer. Subdivision Regulations...

3. What building codes are adopted by Taos County?

The 2006 International Building Code is what was adopted by the building department in reviewing construction plans and development.

4. What is the snow load in Taos County?

The average snow load for Taos County is 40 pounds per square foot (PSF). There is no ground load.

5. What is the wind load for Taos County?

The wind load for Taos County is 80 miles per hour (MPH).

6. What is the seismic zone for Taos County?

The seismic zone for Taos County is 2-B.

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Solid Waste

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1. Why was this ordinance adopted?

This ordinance allows for eight convenient transfer stations throughout Taos County. Prior to this, Taos County absorbed the operational costs associated with a Solid Waste Program. Taos County reached a point where it could no longer afford to financially support such a program and now, the Solid Waste Program is a self sustaining enterprise fund, which means that the funds generated from fees are used specifically and only for expenses directly related to the Solid Waste Program.

2. What is the fee?

The Taos County Solid Waste Management Fee is $100.00 per year, billed semi-annually at the rate of $50.00.

3. Who is required to pay the fee?

This fee is assessed for each residential structure within the unincorporated areas of Taos County.

4. Is this a tax?

Solid Waste fees are not a tax. The fees generated are used to operate the Solid Waste Program throughout Taos County.

5. If I have a private hauler picking up my solid waste, do I still have to pay the $100.00 fee?

If you have a licensed contractor who possesses a fully executed franchise agreement with Taos County you will receive a 75% discount. This means you will pay $25.00 per year.

6. If I have a disability, do I still pay?

Yes, a disability letter from your doctor will qualify property owners for a 75% discount. You will pay $25.00 per year. The letter can be obtained at the Solid Waste Department or call 575-737-6337.

7. If I am a seasonal resident, do I still pay?

Yes, if your residence is occupied at all during the year, you are liable for this fee.

8. I am located in a homeowners association, do I still pay?

Yes, you receive a 75% discount. You will pay $25.00 per year.

9. I sold my property and still receive a bill.

You will continue to receive a bill and be responsible for this fee, until you either provide the Solid Waste Department with documentation showing that the sale has been finalized, or the Assessor's Office has received the recorded documentation and properly updated the County's property database.

10. Where can I receive more information?

Call us at 575-737-6337 or visit our website at www.taoscounty.org