Albuquerque, NM Landscaping Rules: Weed Ordinances (2026)

Weed control in Albuquerque is governed by the Weed, Litter and Snow Removal Ordinance, Sec. 9-8-1 et seq. of the Revised Ordinances, with the operative prohibition at Sec. 9-8-4 (Growth or Accumulation of Weeds and Litter). The ordinance is intended to promote general health, safety and welfare by prohibiting plants of major allergenic significance, those that constitute a fire hazard when wind-collected, and those that otherwise present a hazard or nuisance, while encouraging native grasses whose roots stabilize soil and reduce dust. It is unlawful for any owner of an occupied or unoccupied lot or tract within the city to permit or maintain the growth or accumulation of weeds, including in the area located between the property line and the middle of the alley adjacent to the property. The city defines 16 specific plant species as nuisance weeds; the four-inch height-or-width threshold applies to those listed weeds rather than to a maintained lawn. Removal (not spraying) is what the ordinance requires. The city also requires owners to keep the parking strip from the property line to the curb (or up to 10 feet beyond) clear of nuisance weeds.