04/01/2022 | Press release | Archived content
Annual City of Rio Rancho outdoor watering restrictions are currently in effect through Oct. 31, 2022. To prevent water waste, spray irrigation (sprinkler or device that propels water through the air in the form of small particles or droplets) during the hours of 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. is prohibited for all properties within the City limits, or that are served by the City's water utility. Watering by hand is allowed during these hours.
Residents are encouraged to report water waste violations via the City's Water Conservation Office (505) 896-8737 or Report Rio Rancho (rrnm.gov/report), the City's service request system. Those who are not in compliance with the City's watering restrictions will be subject to the following fees:
Those with questions or seeking variances to watering restrictions should contact the Environmental Programs Division at (505) 896-8737. Permits and variances to the April 1 through Oct. 31 watering restrictions are granted by the City for the following reasons:
Watering restrictions do not apply to water used for dust control, soil compaction, drip irrigation, low-emitting bubblers, hand watering, and watering of containerized plants and plant stock. Shutoff nozzles are required on any hoses used for hand watering, car washing, or other outdoor uses.
Per the water conservation ordinance adopted by the Rio Rancho Governing Body in 2003, water restrictions are put into place each year.