Building Specialty — Plastering, Stucco and Lathing (GS-30)

Unlicensed stucco or plastering work in New Mexico is a criminal misdemeanor

Interior plaster, exterior stucco, synthetic stucco (EIFS), or lath installation without a GS-30 license from the Construction Industries Division (CID) is a criminal offense under NMSA 60-13-52. Fines run $300–$500 or up to 90 days in county jail for contracts at or under $5,000. For contracts over $5,000, the fine rises to 10% of the contract value or up to six months in county jail. Repeat violations trigger double penalties. Unlicensed contractors also lose the right to file a mechanics lien or sue to collect payment.

GS-30 covers all plastering, stucco, and lathing scopes

The GS-30 classification authorizes interior and exterior plastering, traditional stucco, synthetic stucco (EIFS), and lath substrate installation on residential and commercial structures. Stucco is a dominant exterior finish in New Mexico — both the traditional three-coat adobe stucco common in Southwestern construction and modern polymer-based finishes fall within GS-30. The classification does not extend to general building or other trade scopes.

Your Qualifying Party needs 2 years of plastering or stucco experience

CID requires a designated Qualifying Party (QP) who holds the trade credentials on behalf of your business. Under 14.6.6 NMAC, the QP must have 2 years of plastering, stucco, or lathing experience within the 10 years before you apply, and must pass two exams through PSI — a trade exam and a Contractor's Business and Law exam. PSI charges two $36 fees: one for the QP application and work experience affidavit, and a separate one for the company license application.

Bond and workers' compensation are required before CID issues the license

• Surety Bond: $10,000 contractor license bond, filed with CID
• Workers' Compensation Insurance: Required for all licensed entities under the Construction Industries Licensing Act, regardless of employee count

License fee is $150 for the three-year term — application is $30

The non-refundable application fee is $30. The GS-30 license fee runs $150 over the three-year term ($50 per year per 14.5.5.8 NMAC). No continuing education is required for renewal.

File before expiration to avoid a $100 late fee

GS-30 licenses renew every three years. A 30-day grace period applies after expiration — renewing within that window carries no penalty. Past the grace period, a $100 late fee applies. Licenses not renewed within 90 days of expiration are cancelled and require a new application.