Rio Rancho, NM Accessory Structures: Carport Rules (2026)

Section 154.70(A)(7) of Rio Rancho's Zoning Code sets specific conditions for carports placed in the front or side yard. A carport may not be located closer than 10 feet from the front property line. Side-yard carports face tighter limits that vary by zoning district: in the R-2, R-3 and R-4 districts a side-yard carport may not exceed 300 square feet in size or 12 feet in height, while in the E-1 and R-1 districts it may be up to 500 square feet and 13.5 feet in height. Additional side-yard conditions apply: the carport may not overhang or drain onto adjacent property; it must be open on not less than two sides; it may not be placed in a side yard if it is adjacent to an existing carport in the neighboring side yard; and its structure and floor surfaces must be built using only approved noncombustible materials. A carport may encroach on a public utility easement only with an encroachment agreement signed by all relevant utilities. The Code defines a carport (Section 154.03) as a structure not completely enclosed by walls used to shelter automobiles. As an accessory structure, a carport is also subject to the general height and size limits in Section 154.70(A). These are city zoning standards.