Can I keep chickens in Rio Rancho, NM?
Yes, with conditions — Rio Rancho allows chickens only in certain zones or lot configurations (up to 7 hens where permitted). Roosters are prohibited. (Rio Rancho Municipal Code § 90.29 (Domestic Livestock), verified June 2026)
The full rules
| Chickens allowed | Conditional (zone / lot rules) |
|---|---|
| Maximum hens | 7 |
| Roosters | Prohibited |
| Minimum lot size | 21,780 sq ft |
| Coop rules | Allowed only on lots of at least one-half acre in E-1 (Estate Residential) or R-1 (Single-Family) zones. Secure enclosure design, size, setback, and care standards apply. Roosters/male chickens prohibited. |
| Code section | Rio Rancho Municipal Code § 90.29 (Domestic Livestock) |
Rio Rancho permits up to 7 female and immature male chickens, but only on lots of at least one-half acre (21,780 sq ft) in the E-1 Estate Residential or R-1 Single-Family zone districts. Roosters and adult male chickens are prohibited anywhere in the city. Because the right depends on lot size and zone, keeping chickens is conditional.
Common questions
Can I keep chickens in Rio Rancho?
Yes, with conditions — Rio Rancho allows chickens only in certain zones or situations (Rio Rancho Municipal Code § 90.29 (Domestic Livestock)).
How many chickens can I keep in Rio Rancho?
Up to 7 hens. Up to 7 chickens only on lots >= 1/2 acre (21,780 sq ft) in E-1 or R-1 zones; no roosters. Below 1/2 acre or other zones: not permitted as domestic livestock.. Rules vary by zoning district — check the full summary for your zone.
Are roosters allowed in Rio Rancho?
No — roosters are prohibited in Rio Rancho.
Is there a minimum lot size for chickens in Rio Rancho?
Yes — 21,780 sq ft.
What law covers backyard chickens in Rio Rancho?
Rio Rancho Municipal Code § 90.29 (Domestic Livestock). Read the official text at the source linked on this page.
The actual law
Rio Rancho Municipal Code § 90.29 (Domestic Livestock) — read the official code
“No more than 7 female and immature male chickens may be owned, housed, and kept within the city only on lots of at least one-half acre in E-1: Estate Residential Zone District or on lots of at least one-half acre in R-1: Single-Family Zone District.” source
“only on lots of at least one-half acre in E-1: Estate Residential Zone District or on lots of at least one-half acre in R-1: Single-Family Zone District” source
“No rooster or male chicken shall be kept within the city.” source
Last verified June 14, 2026. Always confirm with your municipality — HOA rules can be stricter than city code. How we verify →
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