Quick Reference for
Frequently Asked Questions
on the New Mexico Architectural Act
and Board Rules and Regulations
Frequently Asked Questions
on the New Mexico Architectural Act
and Board Rules and Regulations
Business
Does the Board register firms?
The Board registers individuals only. The requirements for firms are listed in the Act: Section 61-15-6 H I J, & K
What is required of a architect in responsible charge of architectural services for a firm?
Act: Section 61-15-6 K
How may responsible charge be exercised?
Rules: 16 NMAC 30.4.8.5 B
Confidentiality
What matters are confidential?
Act: Section 61-15-5 D
Continuing Education
What kinds of course can I take for continuing education credits?
The Board will accept most courses that fall within the guidelines expressed in the Rules:16 NMAC 30.3.11.1.2. These include monographs offered by NCARB and AIA, as well as other seminars and correspondence courses. The first question a registrant should ask is: does this course or seminar relate, in any way architecturally, to health, safety or public welfare? If yes, this course falls within the guidelines. If the answer is no, the course may still be applicable for credit for the allowed 8 credit hours in other subjects.
Definitions
What architectural services do the Act and Rules cover?
Act: Section 61-15-2B; Rules: 16 NMAC 30.1.7.2
How is construction administration defined in the Act?
Section 61-15-2 D
What is responsible charge?
Act: Section 61-15-2 I; Rules: 16 NMAC 30.1.7.13
Disciplinary Matters
What actions are considered violations of the Act and what are the penalties for these violations?
Act: Sections 61-15-10 and 61-15-12 ; Rules: 16 NMAC 30.1.7.10
Are there costs associated with a disciplinary action?
Act: Section 61-15-12F
Firm Name/Advertising
Under what circumstances may a firm use the term "architecture" or a derivative of the term?
Act: Section 61-15-10 B 5
May a person who is not registered as an architect use "AIA" or a listing of a degree in architecture?
An individual may use the designation "AIA" and/or may list degrees in architecture provided there is no implication that architectural services are being offered. Act: Section 61-15-10 B 5
What are the requirements for representation of prior experience?
Rules: 16 NMAC 30.4.13
How may an intern refer to his/her self?
Act: Section 61-15-2F; Rules: 16 NMAC 30.1.7.9
Registration and Renewal
What are the requirements for architectural registration in New Mexico?
Act: Section 61-15-6; Rules: 16 NMAC 30.3
What do I do if my registration in New Mexico has been expired for more than three years?
Act: Section 61-15-7 E; Rules: 16 NMAC 30.3.11.4
How often do I have to renew my New Mexico registration?
Rules: 16 NMAC 30.3.11.1
Seal
May an architect use a computer generated seal?
Architects may use computer generated seal and an electronic signature if the parties [architect and client] agree to the use of the electronic signature. *(Look for upcoming proposed rule to be posted during the week after the May 3rd Board meeting)*
Does an architect have to seal residences?
Yes. Act: Section 61-15-7 A
Do residences not exempt from seal requirements (e.g., more than two stories) require multiple seals if over $250,000 in value?
Yes, residences which are not exempt from seal requirements require multiple seals if the valuation is more than $250,000.
May an architect remove a seal for non-payment by the client?
No. Rules: 16 NMAC 30.3.14.2 E
Do preliminary drawings require a seal?
Rule 16 NMAC 30.3.14.2 A calls for a seal on "each original sheet of construction drawings…." Construction drawings submitted for permitting and prepared by or under the direct supervision of an architect require a seal. Preliminary drawings are not intended for submission for permitting and therefore do not require a seal.
Seal Exemptions
What work is exempted from seal requirements?
Rules: 16 NMAC 30.1.7.7 C Note: Architects must sign and seal all work prepared by them or under their responsible charge. Act: Section 61-15-7 A
Seal Requirements
When are multiple professional seals required?
Rules: 16 NMAC 30.7.7