Rio Rancho, NM Animal Ordinances: Chickens & Livestock (2026)

Section 90.29(C) of the Rio Rancho Municipal Code governs backyard chickens. No more than seven female and immature male chickens may be owned, housed, and kept within the city, and only on lots of at least one-half acre located in an E-1: Estate Residential or R-1: Single-Family zone district. No rooster or male chicken 'mature enough to crow or otherwise disturb the peace' may be kept anywhere in the city. Gamecocks and breeds commonly used for cock-fighting are prohibited; allowed breeds are at the discretion of the Rio Rancho Animal Resource Center (RRARC). Chickens must be kept in outdoor, species-appropriate housing, and secure predator-proof enclosures that allow roosting, scratching, dusting, and nesting must be built before the birds are acquired. Roosting areas must provide at least two square feet per bird, enclosures are permitted only in rear yards (as defined in Chapter 154, Planning and Zoning), and must be set back 15 feet from any property line. Owners must provide shade, constant potable water, appropriate food, and basic and veterinary care. Note: under Section 90.20, chickens are not counted toward the five-animal household limit, which applies only to dogs, cats, pygmy goats, and rabbits.