Rio Rancho, NM Fence Regulations: Permit Requirements (2026)

Under Rio Rancho Municipal Code Section 154.77(G), all fences require a zoning plan review. If the fence is part of a larger submittal, such as new home construction, the fencing review occurs at that time and is included in the plan-review fee; if the fence is an improvement to an already developed site, a separate fencing plan review is required. The City's Residential Shed, Wall, Fence and Reroof application, issued by the Development Services Department at 3200 Civic Center Circle NE, lists a $10 fee for a fence and a $48.90 fee for a retaining wall (which must include an engineering plan). A fencing plan-review submittal must include the application, lot dimensions (sketch), the location of existing structures including retaining walls, and the location, proposed height, and construction materials of the proposed fence shown in cross-section (Section 154.77(G)(1)). Applicants must show dimensions and distances from each property line (front, rear, left, right). Note that New Mexico's adopted 2018 International Residential Code (R105.1) exempts fences not over six feet from a state building permit, but Rio Rancho's local zoning review still applies regardless of height. Common (shared) walls and fences require a signed Letter of Consent from the adjoining property owner.