New Mexico § 66-7-363 - Animals on highway; highway fencing
Full text of New Mexico New Mexico Statutes Annotated § 66-7-363 — Animals on highway; highway fencing, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 66-7-363. Animals on highway; highway fencing
A. It is unlawful for any person, during the hours of darkness, to ride a horse or
other animal upon the traveled portion of any highway that is normally used by motor
vehicles. B. It is unlawful for any person negligently to permit livestock to wander or graze
upon any fenced highway at any time or, during the hours of darkness, to drive livestock
along or upon any highway that is normally used by motor vehicles. C. Owners of livestock ranging in pastures through which unfenced roads or highways
pass shall not be liable for damages by reason of injury or damage to persons or property
occasioned by collisions of vehicles using the roads and highways and livestock ranging
in the pastures unless the owner of the livestock is guilty of negligence other than
allowing livestock to range in the pasture. D. As the department of transportation's annual budget permits, the department of
transportation shall: (1) construct, inspect regularly and maintain fences along all highways under its
jurisdiction and provide cattle underpasses, water pipelines and cattle guards as
the department of transportation may deem necessary, unless it makes a fact determination
that no livestock can enter the highway from a portion left unfenced; and (2) post proper signs along all highways under its jurisdiction that are not fenced
on both sides and that are located adjacent to property containing livestock. The signs shall be located at intervals of not more than two miles along such unfenced
highways; provided that sign intervals and postings shall be consistent with the
department of transportation's specifications for a uniform system of traffic-control
devices, subject to traffic safety engineering discretion, and shall warn motorists
that loose livestock may be encountered and that caution should be used. E. A person who violates the provisions of Subsection A or B of this section is guilty
of a penalty assessment misdemeanor.
Source: official New Mexico text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About New Mexico § 66-7-363
What does New Mexico Statutes Annotated § 66-7-363 cover?
Section 66-7-363 ("Animals on highway; highway fencing") 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 § 66-7-363?
A common citation format is "New Mexico Statutes Annotated § 66-7-363" (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 § 66-7-363 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.