Tijeras's Fire Regulations: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles fire regulations a little differently. In Tijeras, New Mexico, there are 3 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Outdoor Burning

Open burning in Tijeras is highly restricted due to wildfire risk in the East Mountains. NMAC 14.10.5 (state open burning rule) applies. Bernalillo County Fire Department enforces. Burn days must be verified; the area frequently under fire restrictions.

Key details: State Rule: NMAC 14.10.5 (open burning). Wildfire Risk: High — forested East Mountains. Fire Dept: Bernalillo County FD. Restrictions: Frequently under fire restrictions.

NMED violation: $100 to $10,000/day. Burn ban violation: $300 to $500. City fines vary.

This is one of the stricter rules in Tijeras's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.

Fire Pit Rules

Fire pits in Tijeras must comply with International Fire Code as enforced by Bernalillo County Fire Department. The village's location in the Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) means strict fire safety measures. Attended fires only; wood fuel only.

Key details: Code: International Fire Code (via County). WUI Zone: Village in Wildland-Urban Interface. Attendance: Fire must be attended at all times. Enforcement: Bernalillo County Fire Dept.

Burn ban violation: $100 to $500. Fire causing damage: criminal charges possible. Unattended fire: citation.

This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. Tijeras actively enforces its fire pit rules requirements.

Fireworks

Aerial fireworks are illegal statewide in New Mexico. Tijeras is in a high wildfire risk area in the Tijeras Canyon/East Mountains. Bernalillo County Fire Department provides fire services. Consumer fireworks may be further restricted due to wildfire danger.

Key details: Aerial Fireworks: ILLEGAL statewide. Wildfire Risk: High — East Mountains/Tijeras Canyon. Fire Department: Bernalillo County FD. State Law: NMSA §60-11B.

Illegal fireworks: misdemeanor $300 to $1,000. During burn ban: enhanced penalties. Fire-causing: felony arson charges possible.

This is one of the stricter rules in Tijeras's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.

The Bottom Line

Tijeras is tougher than many cities when it comes to fire regulations. Out of the 3 rules covered here, 3 are rated strict. If you are a homeowner, renter, or business owner in Tijeras, take the time to understand these requirements before they become a problem. Most violations come with fines, and some repeat violations can escalate.

Keep in mind that Tijeras can amend these rules at any council meeting. For the most current version of any rule mentioned here, check the specific ordinance page, where we track updates as they happen.