New Mexico § 17-2-20 - Seizure of devices used for violating law; nuisance; destruction; firearms excepted
Full text of New Mexico New Mexico Statutes Annotated § 17-2-20 — Seizure of devices used for violating law; nuisance; destruction; firearms excepted, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 17-2-20. Seizure of devices used for violating law; nuisance; destruction; firearms excepted
Every net, trap, explosive, poisonous or stupefying substance, or device used or intended
for use in taking or killing game or fish in violation of this chapter, and set, kept
or found in or upon any of the streams or waters in this state or upon the shores
thereof, and every trap, device, blind or deadfall found baited in violation of this
chapter, is declared to be a public nuisance and may be abated and summarily destroyed
by any person and it shall be the duty of every officer authorized to enforce this
chapter to seize and summarily destroy the same and no prosecution or suit shall be
maintained for such destruction; provided, that nothing in this chapter shall be
construed as affecting the right of the state warden [director of the department of
game and fish] to use such means as may be proper for the promotion of game and fish
propagation and culture, nor as authorizing the seizure or destruction of firearms.
Source: official New Mexico text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About New Mexico § 17-2-20
What does New Mexico Statutes Annotated § 17-2-20 cover?
Section 17-2-20 ("Seizure of devices used for violating law; nuisance; destruction; firearms excepted") is part of the New Mexico Statutes Annotated, the codified statutory law of New Mexico. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite New Mexico § 17-2-20?
A common citation format is "New Mexico Statutes Annotated § 17-2-20" (New Mexico). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of New Mexico law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the New Mexico official source linked on this page or consult a licensed New Mexico attorney.
How does New Mexico § 17-2-20 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in New Mexico can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in New Mexico.