Rio Rancho, NM Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]
When are quiet hours in Rio Rancho, NM?
| Regulation | Details for Rio Rancho, NM |
|---|---|
| Quiet Hours | Residential Weekday: 9PM-6AM, Residential Weekend: 10PM-6AM, Commercial Weekday: 9PM-6AM, Commercial Weekend: 10PM-6AM |
| Weekends | See specific hours above |
| Enforcement | Police Non-Emergency: 505-891-7226 |
Residential: Sunday-Thursday 9PM-6AM, Friday-Saturday 10PM-6AM. Commercial: Sunday-Thursday 9PM-6AM, Friday-Saturday 10PM-6AM.
Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.
Rio Rancho, NM Noise Rules
What is the noise ordinance in Rio Rancho, NM?
Rio Rancho, NM's updated noise ordinance, effective July 1, 2024, replaces vague language with specific decibel limits. It prohibits unreasonable noise exceeding set levels in residential (55 dB day, 50 dB night) and commercial (65 dB day, 60 dB night) zones, as measured from the property line. Violations are measured over a 10-minute period.
Decibel Limit Comparison
| Zone Type | Day | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | 55 dB(A) | 50 dB(A) |
| Commercial | 65 dB(A) | 60 dB(A) |
Note: Decibel levels are A-weighted and measured from the source premises property line. A 'persistently or continuously unreasonable noise' means sound exceeding limits during a 10-minute period, occurring in each of the 10 one-minute intervals.
Specific Restrictions
- Construction:
Operation of outdoor power equipment (e.g., sweepers, mowers, leaf/snow blowers, rototillers, power saws) is prohibited between 8 p.m. and 7 a.m. At no time shall the sound level from such equipment exceed 85 dB(A) at the source premises property line.
- Amplified Sound:
It is unlawful to operate radios, musical instruments, loudspeakers, or sound amplifiers for commercial advertising or attracting public attention in residential areas without a permit.
- Animals:
No person shall allow any animal to persistently or continuously bark, howl, or make noise common to their species, or otherwise unreasonably disturb the peace. This applies regardless of time and owner presence. 'Persistently or continuously' refers to a 10-minute period where noise occurs in each one-minute interval.
- Vehicles:
The sounding of any horn or signaling device of any vehicle is unlawful except as a danger warning. Retarders, Jake brakes, and engine brakes are exempt when used in emergency situations to avert bodily harm or property damage.
Frequently Asked Questions about Rio Rancho, NM Noise Rules
What are the designated quiet hours in Rio Rancho, NM?
Residential: Sunday-Thursday 9PM-6AM, Friday-Saturday 10PM-6AM. Commercial: Sunday-Thursday 9PM-6AM, Friday-Saturday 10PM-6AM.. Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.
How loud can I play music in Rio Rancho, NM?
Residential areas typically have a limit of 55 dB(A) during the day and 50 dB(A) at night. Excessive vibration or bass that is plainly audible at the property line may also be a violation.
Who do I contact to report a noise violation in Rio Rancho, NM?
For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Rio Rancho, NM police non-emergency line at 505-891-7226. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at 505-891-5864.