Rio Rancho, NM Noise Ordinances: Barking Dogs (2026)

Animal noise in Rio Rancho is handled separately from the general decibel ordinance. Per the city, Municipal Code 90.22 provides that no person shall allow any animal to persistently or continuously bark, howl, or make noise common to its species, or otherwise unreasonably disturb the peace. The city defines the 'persistently or continuously' trigger for animals as noise continuing without interruption for a period of 10 minutes. Because barking is addressed under the animal chapter rather than the decibel tables in Section 131.06, no decibel meter reading is required - an officer or complainant can document the sustained 10-minute disturbance. Complaints can be reported to non-emergency dispatch at 505-891-7226 or through the city's online Report Rio Rancho system. As a general offense, a violation is subject to the city's penalty provision, Municipal Code 10.99, allowing a fine of up to $500 and/or up to 90 days, with each day treated as a separate offense. New Mexico has no statewide barking-dog statute, so this is purely a matter of Rio Rancho's own municipal code (and any HOA covenants, which are private and separately enforced).