Rio Rancho, NM Sidewalk & Pedestrian Rules: Encroachment Permits (2026)

Any person proposing to work in the right-of-way shall obtain a right-of-way use permit from the city.

(1) For the purposes of this chapter work in the right-of-way shall include excavation, trenchless excavation, construction or any activity which might reasonably require barricading. Additionally, activities adjacent to the right-of-way which could reasonably be expected to encroach into the right-of-way, such as the storage of spoils from an excavation or parking of vehicles, or to otherwise affect the flow of traffic by causing visual distraction, such as unusual or large equipment or large groups of people, are also included.

(2) Each person must obtain their own permit and have their own insurance and bonding. A subcontractor may not work under the general contractor’s permit.

(3) Work included within a city approved subdivision, prior to the city’s acceptance of the subdivision, does not require a right-of-way use permit.

(B) The permit application form and submittal requirements shall be in such form as prescribed by the Public Works Department for publicly funded capital projects, and by the Development Service Department for other work.

(C) All work shall conform to federal, state and city ordinances, codes, design criteria and standards. In the case of conflicting requirements, the most stringent shall apply.

(D) The permittee shall be responsible for the protection of the public as follows:

(1)