Albuquerque has no city ordinance restricting lawn ornaments on residential property. IDO landscaping requirements focus on water conservation (xeriscape) and do not address ornamental content. Historic Preservation Division review applies in Old Town and other designated districts. HOA/condo covenants commonly regulate ornaments. New Mexico's adobe/pueblo aesthetic shapes covenant content.
Albuquerque Code does not regulate the content or placement of lawn ornaments, statuary, religious displays, or similar decorative items. The IDO includes landscaping and water conservation requirements (xeriscape, drought-tolerant plants) under Section 14-16-5-6, but these address landscape composition, not ornaments. Chapter 14 (Property Maintenance) requires yard upkeep but does not address ornamental content. Real restrictions come from three sources: (1) Historic Preservation Division (HPD) review under Section 14-16-6-6 in Old Town, Huning Highland, Spruce Park, Silver Hill, Eighth and Forrester, and other designated districts - permanent visible installations need review; (2) HOA/condominium covenants under NMSA 47-16 and 47-7A; (3) deed restrictions in older planned subdivisions. Typical HOA rules in Cottonwood, Tanoan, and westside communities: architectural review committee approval; size limits 3-4 feet; rear yard placement preference; restrictions on plastic flamingos and similar items; some HOAs require pueblo or southwestern aesthetic compliance. Religious displays may have federal Fair Housing Act protection.
No municipal enforcement against ornaments under Chapter 14 unless creating a maintenance nuisance. HPD violations in historic districts may require removal at owner expense plus IDO fines up to $500 per day. HOA/condo violations result in declaration-specified fines ($50-$500), escalating to liens under NMSA 47-16. Religious display restrictions may trigger federal Fair Housing Act review.
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