Weed Ordinances: Albuquerque vs Tijeras
How do weed ordinances rules compare between Albuquerque, NM and Tijeras, NM?
Tijeras has fewer restrictions than Albuquerque.
Albuquerque, NM
Bernalillo County
Under Albuquerque's Weed, Litter and Snow Removal Ordinance (Sec. 9-8-1 et seq.), it is unlawful to permit listed nuisance weeds to grow to a height or width of more than 4 inches. The owner must keep the property clear, including the area between the property line and the middle of the adjacent alley.
View full Albuquerque rules →Tijeras, NM
Bernalillo County
Tijeras enforces weed abatement. NM Noxious Weed Law applies statewide. Fire prevention concerns drive enforcement in arid areas.
View full Tijeras rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Albuquerque | Tijeras |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | ROA Sec. 9-8-4 (Growth or Accumulation of Weeds and Litter) | - |
| Height/width limit | Listed weeds over 4 inches prohibited | - |
| Owner responsibility | To middle of adjacent alley / curb line | - |
| Listed nuisance weeds | 16 specific species | - |
| Unoccupied lots | City may abate and lien the property | - |
| Authority | - | City + county weed board |
| State Law | - | NMSA §3-53-1 |
| Vacant Lots | - | Annual notices |
| Tumbleweeds | - | Common NM concern |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Albuquerque FAQ
How tall can weeds be in Albuquerque?
Listed nuisance weeds may not exceed 4 inches in height or width. The Weed, Litter and Snow Removal Ordinance requires removal of any covered weeds over that size.
Am I responsible for weeds in the alley behind my house?
Yes. Owners must keep weeds cleared up to the middle of the alley adjacent to the property, and the strip between the property line and the curb.
What happens if I do not remove the weeds?
Occupied properties get a notice and deadline; ignoring it leads to a summons and criminal court referral with possible fines or jail. On vacant lots the city may cut the weeds and lien the property.
Tijeras FAQ
When do I need to clear weeds?
Before they exceed the height limit. Watch for abatement notices from Tijeras.
What about tumbleweeds?
Tumbleweeds (Russian thistle) are noxious weeds. Property owners are responsible for removal.
Compare other topics
See how Albuquerque and Tijeras compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool