Rio Rancho, NM Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)

Section 90.27 of the Rio Rancho Municipal Code regulates wild or exotic animals. Unless otherwise authorized, no person may keep an animal of a species protected by federal law (50 CFR 17.11) or by New Mexico law (NMSA Sections 17-2-3 and 17-3-32 and NMAC 19.35.7). No person may keep an animal that is wild, dangerous, noxious, or naturally inclined to do harm except in a state- and/or federally licensed facility, with city approval, or under a wild or exotic animal license, and adequate devices must prevent escape or injury to the public. To receive, own, or keep a wild or exotic animal in the city, a person must first apply for and obtain a wild and/or exotic animal permit from the Rio Rancho Animal Resource Center (RRARC); if approved, the permit lasts one year. Applicants must show all applicable federal and state permits plus the knowledge and facilities to care for the animals, and RRARC may inspect the premises and may deny, revoke, or suspend permits. The code exempts certain animals from the permit requirement: exotic birds such as parakeets, finches, lovebirds, and cockatiels; all legally allowed exotic fish; and legally allowed animals while in pet stores. Releasing an imported or exotic animal from captivity requires compliance with NMAC 19.35.7.19.