Rio Rancho, NM Public Health Rules: Rodent Control (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing section
- City Code § 91.04(D)
- Standard
- Free from insect/rodent infestation
- Wildlife exemption
- Bees, rabbits if non-nuisance
- Enforcer
- City Development Director
Summary
Rio Rancho property owners must keep their premises free of insect and rodent infestation, though the rule carves out bees, rabbits, and other wildlife that aren't creating a nuisance.
All premises shall be kept free from insect and rodent infestation and other noxious pests. The provision shall not require action to disturb the natural activity of bees, rabbits or other insects and animals where the activity is not a danger or nuisance to any resident or residents of the area and where other applicable legal requirements are met.
(E) Drainage. All premises shall be maintained so as to prevent the accumulation of stagnant water when the water causes a hazardous or unhealthy condition, or becomes a breeding area for insects. This does not apply to city-approved retention basins or similar conditions. (’87 Code, § 9-12-4; Ord. 97-032)
Full Breakdown
City Code § 91.04(D) requires every premises within Rio Rancho city limits to stay free of insect and rodent infestation and other noxious pests, one of the exterior-premises maintenance standards the City Development Director's code officers enforce under § 91.09. The section carves out a specific exemption: it doesn't require disturbing the natural activity of bees, rabbits, or other insects and animals when that activity isn't a danger or nuisance to nearby residents and other legal requirements are met. Related provisions bar rodent harborage from improperly stored materials under § 91.04(C) and require weed control so tall vegetation doesn't shelter infestations under § 91.05.
Violations & Fines
Rodent or pest infestation is a code violation subject to a notice of violation, up to 15 days to abate, then a municipal court citation if the condition isn't fixed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Rio Rancho require rodent control on private property?
Are backyard beehives exempt?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Rio Rancho
Compare Rio Rancho to another location·View the New Mexico public health rules overview
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