Yes, backyard chickens are legal in most of New Mexico, but local ordinances and state agricultural guidelines impose critical restrictions. The New Mexico Livestock Board regulates poultry health under the Animal Health Act, while municipalities like Albuquerque and Santa Fe enforce zoning codes limiting flock size, coop placement, and slaughter practices. Recent 2026 amendments to the State Poultry Regulations mandate biosecurity plans for flocks exceeding 50 birds, aligning with USDA HPAI response protocols.
Key Regulations for Keeping Backyard Chickens in New Mexico
- Flock Size & Zoning: Municipalities cap flock sizes—Albuquerque permits up to 20 hens (no roosters) in residential zones, while Las Cruces restricts coops to rear yards. Violations trigger citations under local nuisance abatement codes.
- Coop Standards: Structures must be predator-proof, elevated 18 inches above ground, and sited at least 25 feet from neighboring dwellings per NMAC 21.30.10. Waste management systems are mandatory to prevent vector-borne disease transmission.
- Health & Reporting: Flocks over 50 birds require registration with the NM Livestock Board, and owners must report mortalities or avian influenza symptoms within 24 hours under 2026 Emergency Response Protocols.