Permits for a Winery in Santa Fe, New Mexico

New Mexico requires all servers of alcohol to complete an approved alcohol server training program before serving alcohol.

A non-dispenser license authorizing the manufacture of wine and sale for on-premises consumption, retail, and wholesale. Includes tasting room privileges.

Required before opening or occupying a commercial space in New Mexico. Confirms the building meets building codes, fire codes, and zoning requirements for the intended use.

Most cities and counties in New Mexico require a local business license or business tax registration before operating. Fees and requirements vary by municipality.

Most New Mexico cities require a business registration or license. Albuquerque, Santa Fe, and Las Cruces each have their own licensing requirements. New Mexico also requires registration with the Taxation and Revenue Department for combined reporting system (CRS) tax filing.

Any New Mexico business that plays copyrighted music publicly — background music, live bands, DJs, jukeboxes, or streaming — must obtain public performance licenses from ASCAP, BMI, and SESAC.

New Mexico requires workers' compensation insurance for all employers with three or more employees (all employers in construction regardless of count). Must be obtained from a licensed insurance carrier or through self-insurance. Regulated by the NM Workers' Compensation Administration.

Required for commercial establishments with assembly occupancy, cooking operations, or fire suppression systems. Issued by local fire departments or the State Fire Marshal's Office.

New Mexico requires food handlers to obtain certification through an approved food handler training program. Most counties require this within 30 days of hire.

Required for any establishment preparing, serving, or selling food in New Mexico. Issued by the New Mexico Environment Department (NMED) Food Program or the local health office. Covers food safety, sanitation, and facility standards.

Required for installing, replacing, or modifying permanent exterior business signage in New Mexico. Must comply with local sign ordinances.

New Mexico imposes a gross receipts tax (GRT) instead of a traditional sales tax. State rate is 5.0% plus local rates (total 5.0%–9.0%). Registration is through the Combined Reporting System (CRS) with the NM Taxation and Revenue Department. Must be obtained before opening.

Employers in New Mexico must register to withhold state income tax from employee wages. Registration required before first payroll.

Verification from the city or county planning department that the proposed business use is permitted in the zoning district. Required before issuing a business license in New Mexico.