Rio Rancho, NM Property Maintenance: Trash Bin Storage (2026)

Rio Rancho addresses trash-bin condition and placement in both Chapter 91 (Nuisances) and Chapter 50 (Solid Waste). Section 91.21(F) requires that all solid waste receptacles be maintained in a clean and sanitary condition by the owner or person using the receptacle, and that receptacles be located only in places readily accessible for emptying but not placed in any position that may constitute a nuisance or obstruction to vehicular or pedestrian traffic. Under Chapter 50, residential carts are mechanically handled containers obtained from the city's authorized contractor; per Section 50.07(A)(1) they remain the property and responsibility of the contractor and must be maintained in mechanically sound condition by the contractor, with the combined weight of container and contents not exceeding 150 pounds. Section 50.07(A)(2) requires each container to have a well-fitted cover kept closed when containing solid waste, a reinforced top and bottom, and no significant dents; deteriorated, leaking, or unsafe containers must be replaced by the contractor. Owners, occupants, and tenants must store containers so they are not overturned, upset, or scattered. A code enforcement officer may, upon ten days' written notice by registered or certified mail, advise a customer or contractor of a violation and order corrective action including repair or replacement of a container. Solid waste violations under Chapter 50 carry a fine of no less than $25 and no more than $500 per Section 50.99.