Rio Rancho, NM Parking Rules: Abandoned Vehicles (2026)

Rio Rancho addresses abandoned and inoperable vehicles primarily through Section 91.06 of its property-maintenance code. Outdoor storage of inoperable or abandoned vehicles, or parts of them, is prohibited; such vehicles may only be stored inside a building so they are not visible from any adjoining property or public road. The code defines an 'inoperable or inoperative vehicle' as any motor vehicle that, by reason of dismantling, disrepair, or other cause, is incapable of being propelled under its own power. Limited exceptions allow a registered, actively restored vehicle (at least ten hours of work in the last 30 days), a resident-registered unit stored up to one month, or one fully covered unit in a side or rear yard at least 5 feet from any property line and structure. Section 91.06(D) makes clear the section does not permit placing inoperable or abandoned vehicles on any public street, and such placement is enforced by the Department of Public Safety. Beyond the city code, New Mexico law defines an 'abandoned vehicle' as one left unattended on public or private property for at least 30 days (NMSA 1978, Section 66-1-4.1) and governs custody and disposal under NMSA 1978, Section 66-3-121.