Rio Rancho, NM Trash & Recycling: Collection Schedule (2026)
Key Facts
- Service
- Mandatory for all properties
- Fees
- Owed even if unused
- Enforcement
- NMSA §§ 3-48-1 through 3-48-7
- Provider
- Exclusive franchise contractor
Summary
Rio Rancho requires every property owner to arrange and pay for franchised solid waste collection service, whether or not it is actually used, with nonpayment enforceable under state law.
Notwithstanding the terms of this section, all persons must arrange for regular residential or commercial solid waste collection with the appropriate contractor, per the terms of this chapter, and must pay for the service, per the terms of this chapter. (’87 Code, § 8-1-5; ’87 Code, § 8-1-6; ’87 Code, § 8-1-7; Ord. 82-34; Am. Ord. 91-041; Am. Ord. 93-028; Am. Ord. 00-003)
Full Breakdown
City Code § 50.06(C)(3) requires all persons to arrange for regular residential or commercial solid waste collection with the city's authorized contractor and to pay for it. Section 50.10(A) reinforces this: the property owner or agent must make collection arrangements and pay contractor fees whether or not the service is actually used, with nonpayment enforceable under NMSA §§ 3-48-1 through 3-48-7 and punishable under § 50.99. The city runs the system through exclusive franchise contractors rather than municipal trucks (§ 50.06(A)).
Violations & Fines
Failing to arrange or pay for required collection service violates § 50.06(C)(3) and § 50.10(A); nonpayment is enforceable under NMSA §§ 3-48-1 through 3-48-7 and punishable under § 50.99.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a Rio Rancho resident opt out of trash collection?
Does the city itself collect the trash?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Rio Rancho
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