Overview: STR Status in Roswell, NM

Short-term rentals are explicitly allowed in Roswell, NM through a comprehensive licensing and regulatory framework. The City of Roswell permits STR operations provided operators obtain the required short-term rental registration, business license, and comply with all applicable zoning, safety, and tax requirements. Properties must be operated as primary residences with proper documentation and ongoing compliance with municipal ordinances.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Roswell

Step-by-Step Registration Process

Step 1: Obtain New Mexico Tax ID

• Visit the New Mexico Taxation & Revenue Department at 400 N. Pennsylvania Ave, Suite 200, or apply online at tax.newmexico.gov
• This is required before proceeding with any city registrations

Step 2: Complete Short-Term Rental Registration Application

• Download and complete the official application form available at roswell-nm.gov
• Submit to the Business License Clerk with $35 non-refundable registration fee
• Include required documentation (see Required Documents section below)

Step 3: Schedule Required Inspections

• Fire Marshal inspection: Call 575-624-6830
• Building inspection: Call 575-637-6293
• Fire inspection must be completed before building inspection
• All inspectors set their own appointments - contact them directly

Step 4: Submit Documentation for Review

• Insurance certificate and off-street parking plan must be submitted to Planning and Zoning Department
• Site plan required for additions or remodels only

Step 5: Obtain Business License

• After all inspections are completed and approved
• Business License Clerk will issue registration license
• Your business license cannot be issued until all inspections are completed

Step 6: Begin Tax Collection

• Start collecting Lodgers' Tax (5% of nightly rate)
• Remit collections by the 25th of the succeeding month

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

Essential Documentation

1. Short-Term Rental Registration Application ($35 fee)
2. Business License Registration (separate fee)
3. New Mexico State Tax ID Number (CRS number)
4. General Commercial Liability Insurance Certificate
5. Off-Street Parking Plan (must include one ADA space and one standard space)
6. Fire Marshal Inspection Certificate
7. Building Inspection Certificate
8. Site Plan (if property is an addition or remodel)

Safety Compliance Requirements

Per municipal code, all STR properties must have:

• Fire Extinguishers: ABC 5-pound metal head type, inspected and tagged annually, minimum one per floor
• Smoke Alarms: Installed in every sleeping room and on every level, compliant with 2015 International Building and Fire Codes
• Clear Escape Routes: Unobstructed path to outside from every sleeping room and living area
• Open Fire Permit (if applicable): Posted at primary entrance per Roswell Code section 42-42

Annual Renewal Requirements

• Both registration and business license must be renewed annually
• Inspections must be passed annually
• Insurance must remain current

Specific Regulations for Short-Term Rentals

City of Roswell STR Regulations

Primary Residence Requirement

• STRs must be operated in the property owner's primary residence
• The location must be the person's usual place of return and habitation for the license term

Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)

• ADUs may not be used as separate short-term rentals
• ADUs have the same limitations as the primary residence

Local Contact Requirements

• Each STR must designate a local contact person
• Contact must be available 24/7, 7 days per week
• Must respond within one hour to address complaints or violations
• Contact person must be able to satisfactorily correct alleged nuisances

Operational Standards

• Properties must comply with all City of Roswell Municipal Code provisions
• Hosts must address public safety calls, nuisances, and guest conduct issues
• Additional regulations available in short-term rental guidelines

Zoning Compliance

• Properties must be in appropriate zoning districts for STR operation
• Planning and Zoning Department conducts review of parking and site plans
• Properties in common interest developments (HOAs) require prior HOA approval

County-Level Regulations

• Chaves County maintains oversight through the Roswell Chaves County Economic Development Corporation
• County regulations complement city requirements where applicable

State-Level Requirements (New Mexico)

Tax Obligations

• Gross Receipts Tax (GRT): State-level tax on rental income (varies by location)
• Lodgers' Tax: 5% of nightly rate, remitted monthly to city
• Hosts must maintain detailed records of all rental income and tax payments
• State business registration may be required for business entities

General Compliance

• Properties must meet statewide building and fire codes
• Anti-discrimination laws apply to all rental operations
• Health and safety codes apply to all rental properties

Contact Information for Local Authorities

Primary City Contacts

Finance Department (Licensing and Registration)

• Phone: (575) 624-6700
• Email: tourism@roswell-nm.gov
• Address: 500 N. Main St. Suite 100, P.O. Drawer 1838, Roswell, NM 88202

Business License Clerk

• Phone: (575) 637-6208

Fire Marshal Office (Inspections)

• Phone: (575) 624-6830

Building Inspection Office

• Phone: (575) 637-6293

Planning and Zoning Department

• Reviews parking plans and site plans
• Located within City Hall complex

General City Contact

• Phone: (575) 624-6700
• Email: info@roswell-nm.gov
• Address: 425 N Richardson, Roswell, NM 88201

County and State Contacts

Chaves County

• Website: co.chaves.nm.us

New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department

• Website: tax.newmexico.gov
• Location: 400 N. Pennsylvania Ave. Suite 200, Roswell, NM

Source Links

Official City Resources

• City of Roswell Short-Term Rentals Page
• STR Registration Application
• Business Licenses Information
• Planning and Zoning Permits
• Building Inspections
• Fire Code Inspection

Additional Resources

• Chaves County Economic Development
• New Mexico Taxation & Revenue Department

Note: This guide is based on current municipal regulations as of the provided information. STR regulations may be updated periodically. Investors should verify current requirements with the City of Roswell Finance Department before proceeding with any investments or registrations.