Rio Rancho, NM Landscaping Rules: Tree Trimming (2026)

For trees growing entirely on private property, the City of Rio Rancho does not advertise a permit or approval process for routine trimming or pruning; homeowners are generally free to shape and maintain their own trees. The City's property-maintenance and nuisance framework (Chapter 91, Nuisances; Health and Sanitation) requires that developed exterior areas be kept free of dry vegetation, tumbleweeds, weeds, bushes, and overgrown trees that create a visual blight or that may harbor insect or rodent infestation, which effectively obligates owners to keep limbs and brush in check. Branches and shrubs may not obstruct sidewalks, the roadway, or the public right-of-way, and the City regulates the right-of-way as the area deeded or reserved primarily for public movement of people, goods, and vehicles. Trees located in city rights-of-way, along streets, or near power lines may require City approval or utility coordination before major trimming. Many Rio Rancho subdivisions are also governed by homeowners associations whose covenants impose their own tree-maintenance and architectural-review rules, which can be stricter than the City code. When in doubt about a tree near the street or a utility line, residents should contact City Development Services before cutting.