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Alameda Park Zoo

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1. Can I bring food into the park?

Yes, guests are welcome to bring their own food.

For the safety of park guests and wildlife in our care no glass containers or alcohol are allowed.

We do not have any facilities available for personal food storage.

We do not offer dining options; only small concession items.

Guests are allowed to exit and re-enter the Zoo, should they choose to go dine off site. 

If you leave the Zoo and intend to return on the same day, you must re-enter the Zoo before 4:30 pm.

2. Can I arrange an interview with animal care staff?

No. We are unable to accommodate interviews with zoo keepers as it would take our animal care team away from their primary responsibilities to the animals.

3. Can I feed the animals?

No. Our animals are on special diets and food outside those diets can harm the animals. 

Coin operated duck food dispensers are available at the duck pond. Only the ducks at our duck pond can be fed by visitors. ($.25 quarters only.)

4. Can I have a birthday party at the zoo?

Yes. please visit our birthday packages for more information.

5. Does the zoo have a lost and found?

Yes, the lost and found is located in the gift shop.

Please contact the gift shop attendant to inquire if your item was turned in. 575-439-4290

Leave complete contact information and description of item in case it is found.

6. What are the zoo's admission prices?

Adults (Ages 13- 59)        $4

Children (Ages 5- 12)      $2.50

Children under 4             Free

Seniors (Age 60+)           $2.50

Active or retired Military   $2.50 (Must show ID, dependents are not eligible for this discount)

People under 16 years of age must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

Same day re-entry is allowed through gift shop.

7. What are the zoo's hours?

We are open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. 

The gift shop is open from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm. 

Last admission to the zoo is at 4:30.

We are closed on Christmas Day and New Year's Day

8. What are the zoo's rules?

Visitors must remain on pathways. Any fencing, rails, rocks and other barriers are there to protect both you and the animals from harm. Do not lift children over safety rails or rest them on railings. Do not play on rocks. Do not put fingers or arms through fences. Do not enter nonpublic areas.

Adults must remain with their children at all times. 

For the health and safety of visitors, staff and animals, the zoo prohibits smoking of any type. This includes vaping and e-cigarettes.

Pets are not allowed in the Alameda Park Zoo. The zoo is considered a quarantine facility in order to protect the health of the zoo animals.

Certified service animals, permitted under the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA,) are allowed in the zoo. 

Emotional support and companion animals are not service animals and may not enter the facility. 

Please do not leave your pet in your vehicle. 

Do not feed the animals. Our animals are on special diets and food outside those diets can harm the animals. 

Coin operated duck food dispensers are available at the duck pond. Only the ducks at our duck pond can be fed by visitors. ($.25 quarters only.)

Please show respect for the zoo’s inhabitants by refraining from banging on windows and throwing objects (including food) into exhibits. Do not harass, chase, or tease the animals.

Balls, frisbees, jump ropes, or any throwing/kicking toys are to be kept out of animal areas. 

The plants and vegetation throughout the zoo is there for everyone to enjoy. Please refrain from damaging our plants by pulling off leaves, flowers, and branches.  

Drones are not allowed on zoo grounds at any time.

Selfie sticks are allowed, but guests may not cross any barriers.

9. What items are prohibited at the Alameda Park Zoo?

Items not permitted include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Animals / Pets

• Weapons (e.g. guns, knifes, razor blades, box cutters.)

• Alcohol, marijuana (including marijuana-enriched products), and any illegal substances.

• Bicycles, scooters, roller skates/blades, roller shoes, hoverboards skateboards and riding toys

• Remote control toys.

• Disruptive items (e.g. laser pointers, silly string, party poppers, fireworks, stink bombs, air horns, tools, musical instruments, megaphones, noise makers, toys that make loud noises.)

• Drones or flying toys

• Restraining devices (e.g., handcuffs, zip ties) or any suspicious items (duct tape, wire)

• Glass bottles and containers.

• Masks, costumes and other items deemed inappropriate by Zoo management

• Fires and grills

• No soliciting

• Shirts and shoes are required. No offensive or profane clothing. 

• Bags are allowed within reason, including backpacks.

This information is subject to change without notice.

10. What services, facilities, and rentals are offered at the zoo?

• Free Wi-Fi in the gift shop
• Public restroom is located near the entrance to the zoo.
• Rentals:
  • Single Stroller       $3.50
  • Double Stroller      $5.00
  • Safari Cart            $6.50
  • Wheelchairs          FREE

(All rentals are "Frist come, First served") 

11. What time of day will I see more animals?

Many of our animals are early risers and may be a bit more active in the morning depending on weather conditions. There is no way to predict when animals will be more visible. 

All of our animals have the choice to meet you when they are ready.

Wildlife may be removed from public view for a variety of reasons. (e.g. environmental conditions, health issues, and behavioral concerns.) 

Many habitats are designed for animals to be able to remove themselves from view at any time. 

No refunds or exchanges in cases of inclement weather or exhibit closure. 

Guests can to call ahead to check for any changes or closures. 575-439-4290

12. Where can I find the zoo events?

Events are posted on our Facebook and Instagram pages. 

Scheduled events can also be found on the zoo's calendar.

Regular admission prices apply to all events unless stated otherwise.

13. Who do I contact with questions, issues or complaints?

Call the zoo at 575-439-4290.

For press or media inquiries, please ask to speak to zoo manager.

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Animal Control - Pets

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1. I was just told that my pet needs a city license. Is this true and if so why?

There is a city ordinance that requires all dogs and cats that reside in the city limits to be licensed. The city license aides Animal Control officers in ensuring that dogs and cats receive their rabies vaccination (rabies vaccination is required to purchase a license.) The city license is also a valuable tool used by Animal Control to locate owners of stray pets. For more information, call Animal Control at 575-439-4330.

2. If I get bit by an animal what should I do?

If you feel the bite is serious, seek medical attention immediately. Whether you go to a doctor’s office or the hospital emergency room, they will contact Animal Control to report the bite and an Animal Control officer will be dispatched immediately. If you do not seek medical attention you may call Animal Control at 575-439-4330 and an Officer will be dispatched.

The Officer will locate the animal and verify whether it has a current rabies vaccination. If the animal does not have current vaccinations it will be impounded and quarantined for 10 days. You will be informed if anything out of the ordinary is observed during the quarantine period. You will also be contacted by an Officer approximately 10 days after the bite during a follow up to ensure that you are recovering satisfactorily.

3. My friend told me that my cat had to be on a leash whenever I let it go outside. Is this true?

Yes, this is true. Cats must follow the same ordinances as dogs. They must be kept on a leash when not indoors or in an enclosed fence. For more information, call Animal Control at 575-439-4330.

4. My neighbor’s dog is chained up in the backyard. I never see him feed his dog and I am constantly giving the dog water. What should I do?

Contact Animal Control by calling 575-439-4330 and they will send an officer to do a welfare check on the dog. The officer will check to see if the dog is in distress and requires immediate vet care. He will also check for the presence of food, water, and adequate shelter. The officer will make contact with the owner of the dog and check for current rabies vaccination and city license. The officer will then determine what steps are necessary to ensure the health and welfare of the dog.

5. My pet got out of my yard and was picked up by Animal Control. What do I need to do to recover my pet?

Your first step would be to go to Animal Control and identify your pet. After this is done, you will need proof of current rabies vaccination and city license. If your pet is not current on these, you will have to purchase these from Animal Control. If your pet has not been spayed or neutered, you will also have to pay for this procedure to be done, unless your pet is registered by a recognized organization such as the American Kennel Club, United Kennel Club, etc.

Visit Animal Control at: 2910 N Florida Avenue, Alamogordo, NM 88310

For more information, call Animal Control at 575-439-4330.

6. My pet lost its collar along with its tags. Can I get replacement tags?

You can purchase a replacement city license from Animal Control for $1. Replacement rabies tags will have to be purchased from your veterinarian. For more information, call Animal Control at 575-439-4330.

7. My pet passed away last night. What should I do with the remains?

You can contact one of the local veterinarian clinics to see if they offer disposal services, or you can contact Animal Control at 575-439-4330. Animal control will pick up your deceased pet for a $5 charge or you can bring it directly to Animal Control free of charge. If you bring it to Animal Control please call in advance.

Animal Control is located at 2910 N Florida Avenue, Alamogordo, NM 88310

8. Pigeons keep coming into my yard and eating my pet’s food. They are becoming a nuisance, can you help?

Contact a local pest control agency for assistance in removal of the pigeons.

9. Our neighbor’s dog barks constantly. Is there any way to resolve this problem?

Contact Animal Control by calling 575-439-4330 and an officer will be dispatched to the home where the dog resides. The officer will attempt to make contact with the animal's owner to resolve the problem. If the residents are not home a door tag will be left requesting them to contact the officer. If the dog is barking after hours you may contact the Alamogordo Police Department at 575-439-4300 and they will send an officer to make contact with the residents.

10. We can no longer care for our family pet. What options are available to us?

If you have to get rid of your pet for any reason, there are many options available. You can advertise in the local newspaper or on the radio. Most newspapers and radio stations offer free advertisements for pet giveaway. Local supermarkets have bulletin boards and allow pet owners to place flyers on these.

Animal Control also has two bulletin boards. One is located inside the building and the other is located outside on the Southern wall. If none of these resources work or if you must give your pet away immediately, you can do an owner impound at Animal Control for a $20 fee. If you do an owner impound please bring any shot records, vet records, and tags for your pet. These can greatly increase the chance of adoption for you pet.

Visit Animal Control is located at 2910 N Florida Avenue, Alamogordo, NM 88310

For more information, call Animal Control at 575-439-4330.

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Animal Control - Wild Animals

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1. I found a stray animal and Animal Control is closed. What should I do with the animal?

You have a few options. If you feel comfortable with the animal you can keep it and contact Animal Control the following day, or you can take the animal to Animal Control and place it in one of the drop off cages on the North side of the building. If you are unable to keep the animal or transport it to Animal Control, then you can call the police department's non emergency number, 575-439-4300, and they will dispatch the on-call Animal Control Officer to your location for pickup.

2. I have seen skunks in my neighborhood. Can Animal Control remove the skunks?

Yes. Contact Animal Control at 575-439-4330 and they can lend you a live trap along with instructions on how to set and bait the trap. Once a skunk is caught call 575-439-4330 and an officer will be sent to retrieve the skunk.

3. I have a problem with stray cats in my neighborhood. Will Animal Control help me resolve this problem?

Yes. Contact Animal Control at 575-439-4330 and they will lend you a live trap along with instructions on how to set and bait the trap. Once a cat is trapped call 576-439-4330. An officer will be sent to retrieve the cat.

4. I have been having a problem with bats around my home. Does Animal Control handle bats?

If the bats are on the outside of your home, doorway, eaves, etc. we can attempt to capture the bats. If they are located inside your residence, you will have to contact a local pest control agency. For more information, call Animal Control at 575-439-4330.

5. I just noticed a large swarm of bees by my house. Does Animal Control do anything about bees?

If the bees are on private property, the property owner should call a pest control company. If they are on public property, Animal Control will come out and do an assessment of the location of the bees and whether they pose a danger to the public. Once this is done Animal Control will contact the proper authorities to remove the bees if necessary. For more information, call Animal Control at 575-439-4330.

6. If I get bit by an animal what should I do?

Medical Attention

If you feel the bite is serious, seek medical attention immediately. Whether you go to a doctor’s office or the hospital emergency room, they will contact Animal Control to report the bite and an Animal Control Officer will be dispatched immediately.

Vaccinations

If you do not seek medical attention you may call Animal Control and an officer will be dispatched. The officer will locate the animal and verify whether it has a current rabies vaccination. If the animal does not have current vaccinations it will be impounded and quarantined for 10 days. You will be informed if anything out of the ordinary is observed during the quarantine period. You will also be contacted by an officer approximately 10 days after the bite during a follow up to ensure that you are recovering satisfactorily.

More Information

For more information or if you are bit by an animal, call Animal Control at 575-439-4330.

7. Pigeons keep coming into my yard and eating my pet’s food. They are becoming a nuisance, can you help?

Contact a local pest control agency for assistance in removal of the pigeons.

8. There is a large rattlesnake in my yard. Will you send someone to remove it?

Yes. Animal Control officers will respond to snake calls within the city limits. Officers will capture and release it back to the wild in an unpopulated area. For more information, call Animal Control at 575-439-4330.

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Animal Control Department Information

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1. Does animal control accept donations?

Yes. Animal Control accepts and deeply appreciates all donations. We accept:

• Aluminum cans
• Animal treats
• Blankets
• Cat litter
• Monetary donations
• Newspapers
• Pet food
• Pet toys

With monetary donations, please be specific about what you would like it to be used for, for example: food, vet care, equipment, adoption assistance, etc. For more information, call Animal Control at 575-439-4330.

2. Does Animal Control have a volunteer program? If so, how do I volunteer and what would my duties be?

Animal Control welcomes and appreciates volunteers. To volunteer, pick up an application at Animal Control. Once the application is returned we will contact you when it has been approved. 

Volunteers are used primarily to socialize the animals. Socialization helps prepare the animals for adoption and also gives them the attention that is important for any prospective pet.

Volunteers can also walk dogs and assist with adoptions. Volunteers can choose the hours they work between 8:00 am and 5:00 pm.7 days a week. Any time spent volunteering is greatly appreciated.

Pick up an application at:
2910 N Florida Avenue
Alamogordo, NM 88310

For more information, call Animal Control at 575-439-4330.

3. If I live outside the city limits and have an animal complaint, will you send someone out to assist me?

Unfortunately we are not allowed to handle calls outside of our jurisdiction, so you must call the Otero County Sheriffs Office at 575-437-2210.

4. What time does Animal Control open?

Animal Control is open to the public Monday through Saturday from 12:00 pm (noon) until 5:00 pm. 

For more information, call Animal Control at 575-439-4330.

5. What should I do if I have an animal complaint and Animal Control is closed?

We have Animal Control Officers on duty from 8:00 am until 5:00 pm, seven days a week. One officer is on call 24 hours a day for emergencies. If you have a complaint please call 575-439-4330 and someone will assist you.

6. Where is Animal Control located?

Animal Control is located at 2910 North Florida at the intersection of Florida and Fairgrounds Road. For more information, call Animal Control at 575-439-4330.

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Cross-Connection Control Program

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1. I received a letter saying my annual backflow test is due. What do I need to do?

Contact a Backflow Tester from our List of Approved Backflow Testers and schedule a test. Provide a copy of the letter to your Tester. After completing the test, the Tester will submit the results to the City of Alamogordo Utilities Department.

2. Why are backflow preventers tested annually?

Backflow prevention assemblies have internal seals, springs, and moving parts that are susceptible to wear and failure. Annual testing ensures they are functioning properly and protecting our public water system.

3. Do Backflow Testers work for City of Alamogordo Utilities Department?

Yes, however, we require you to utilize independent private contractors. The City of Alamogordo Utilities Department does not install or test backflow preventers. We only inspect them. We do require backflow tests to be performed by Testers on our List of Approved Backflow Testers.

4. How do I know if I need to install a backflow preventer?

Residential customers are only required to install a backflow preventer if the home has an in-ground irrigation system, well, or pool. It is the customer's responsibility to notify us if an irrigation system, well, or pool is installed. Backflow requirements vary for commercial customers based on the business's water use. Our staff reviews newly established commercial water accounts to assess the degree of backflow hazard and notifies businesses about backflow requirements.

5. What is backflow?

Backflow is the reversal of the normal flow of water. It's caused by pressure differences and can allow contaminants from an irrigation system, boiler, or other sources to enter a home or building's plumbing system or the public water supply. Backflow prevention devices protect plumbing systems and our public water supply by preventing backflow.

6. What is a cross connection?

A cross-connection is a link between a potable water system and a non-potable water system, in our case, the City of Alamogordo's public water lines and our customers’ private plumbing systems. Backflow can occur through cross-connections.

7. What causes backflow?

A sudden drop in water pressure in our public system can cause backflow. Backpressure can also cause backflow. Backpressure occurs when a building's plumbing system has higher pressure than the public water supply. Both situations can allow water and contaminants from a private plumbing system to reverse flow into the public supply, potentially contaminating the water for other users. Backflow preventers keep this from happening.

8. How does City of Alamogordo Water System prevent backflow?

Since 1999, the City has installed residential dual check valves on every residential water service. We also require customers whose water use presents a backflow hazard to install and annually test a backflow prevention assembly according to our specifications.

9. What can I do to protect my home plumbing system from backflow?

Install a hose-bib vacuum breaker on each of your outside water spigots. These devices will prevent water from being back-siphoned from a hose or irrigation system into your home's plumbing. Hose-bib vacuum breakers are inexpensive and available at hardware stores.

10. What is the backflow administration fee?

This annual fee is assessed on each backflow prevention assembly to offset the cost of maintaining our backflow prevention program. Residential irrigation customers are exempt from this fee.

11. A backflow preventer was already installed when I moved into this commercial space, but I don't think I need it. What should I do?

Different customers present different backflow hazards, even at the same location. If your water use is different from the last customer, contact us to schedule an assessment.

12. I'm a renter, why did I receive a letter about the backflow preventer?

Compliance with our backflow requirements is the responsibility of the water account holder. If you are renting a commercial space, your landlord or property management company may agree to take care of the backflow installation and/or annual testing, but it is ultimately the account holder's responsibility.

13. I received a letter saying I need to install a backflow preventer. How do I do that?

We recommend contacting a licensed plumber. You can install it yourself, but it must be installed according to our specifications, and the Utilities Department will inspect it after installation. If you hire someone to install it, provide them with a copy of the letter. After completing the install, contact a Backflow Tester from our List of Approved Backflow Testers and schedule a test. Provide a copy of the letter to your Tester. After completing the test, the Tester will submit the results to the City of Alamogordo Utilities Department.

14. Examples of common sources of cross connection hazards are listed below (this is not intended to be a complete list):

Agriculture/Farming Operations/Processing Facilities  ·  Air Conditioning Cooling Towers  ·  Aircraft Modification and Storage Facilities  ·  Airports and Airlines  ·  Apartments, Condominiums, (Bidets, Cooling Towers, Chillers, Boilers, Laundry Machines, Pools, Blow Offs)  ·  Asphalt Plants  ·  Aspirators  ·  Auto Garages  ·  Autoclaves and Sanitizers  ·  Automotive Dealers/Plants  ·  Automotive Radiator Shops Automotive Paint, Body Repair Facilities  ·  Automotive Repair Facilities  ·  Autopsy Facilities  ·  Baking Facility  ·  Beauty Salon, Barber Shops, Beauty Parlors, Beauty and Baber Schools  ·  Blood/Plasma Collection Facilities  ·  Breweries  ·  Butchers  ·  Car Wash  ·  Car and Truck Wash Facilities including Detail Services  ·  Cellar drains of the water ejector type (Water Powered)  ·  Cemetery (Excluding Office Facilities)  ·  Chemical Plants (Processing, Manufacturing, Compounding, Treatment)  ·  Chemical Storage Facilities Church/Religious Facilities (Baptisteries and Kitchens)  ·  Coin/Card-Operated Laundries  ·  Community Facilities  ·  Compressed Gas Handling and Storage Facilities  ·  Concrete Mixing Plants  ·  Convenience Stores (with Gasoline and Food Facilities)  ·  Crime Laboratories  ·  Day Care Facilities (with Food Processing)  ·  Dental Facilities/Laboratories/Buddy Systems  ·  Doctors’ Offices and Clinics  ·  Dry Cleaners (Commercial, excluding Drop off Facilities)  ·  Embalming  ·  Equipment using Water Producing Pressure  ·  Exterminating Companies  ·  Facilities using Water in Manufacturing/Processing  ·  Farms and Feedlot Operations/Hog Farm  ·  Fertilizers Plants, (Liquid and Spray Distributors)  ·  Film Processing Facilities (including One Hour Processing)  ·  Food and Beverage Processing Facilities  ·  Fire Sprinkler Systems  ·  Fuel/Oil Handling or Processing Facilities  ·  Funeral Homes/Parlors, Morgues and Mortuaries  ·  Gardening/Horticulture, Composting  ·  Gas Stations (and/or Mini Marts with Soda Dispensing Machines or Coffee Lines)  ·  Grease Traps/Sewage Ejectors/Degreasing Equipment/ Garbage Grinders  ·  Grocery Stores (Raw Meat and Hazardous Waste Processing or Storage Facilities  ·  Health Care Facilities/Dockside Facilities  Health Clubs, Fitness Centers and Spas  ·  Heat Exchangers/Solar Heating System  ·  Home Improvement Stores  ·  Hospitals, Dialysis Centers  ·  Hotels and Motels  ·  Ice Processing and/or Manufacturing Facilities  ·  Incineration Facilities  ·  Irrigation Systems (Planting, Agricultural and Lawn)  ·  Jails and Penal Institutions  ·  Kennels and Pet Facilities (Animal Hospitals and Clinics)  ·  Laboratories and Research Facilities (Industrial, Commercial, Medical Research Schools/Colleges)  ·  Laundries/Laundromats (Commercial, excluding Drop off Facilities)  ·  Livestock and Animal Holding Facilities  ·  Lumber Yards/Processing Facilities  ·  Meat Markets and/or Meat Processing Facilities  ·  Medical Facilities/Offices/Labs (that administer medication), Plasma Centers  ·  Metal Manufacturing, Plating Etching, Anodizing, Passivation or Pickling Plants  ·  Mobile Homes (Trailers)/RV Parks or Campgrounds  ·  Nail Salon  ·  Nursery, Shrubbery or Garden Centers and Greenhouses  ·  Nursing Homes/Convalescent (Rehabilitation) Homes  ·  Paper and Paper Product Plants  ·  Pesticides, Weedicides, Herbicides, Distributors, Processors, Applicators  ·  Pharmacy/Drug Store  ·  Petroleum Processing and Storage Plants  ·  Poultry Operations  ·  Power Plants (Electrical Facilities)  ·  Premises with Industrial Piping Systems or Auxiliary Water Supplies/Restricted Inspections  ·  Printing Facilities (Excluding Copy Centers)  ·  Private Wells  ·  Propane, Butane Gas Handling Facility  ·  Radioactive Material Plants and Handling Facilities  ·  Railroad Yards  ·  Rain Water (Capture and Use) Systems  ·  Recreational Areas (Swimming Pools/Water Slides/Flume)  ·  Restaurants (all types), and Food Handlers  ·  Retirement/Assisted Living Centers  ·  Sand and/or Gravel Processing Plants  ·  Schools with Athletics Facilities, Labs, Kitchen, Pool, Spas  ·  Shopping Centers/Malls//Strip Malls  ·  Soda Dispensing Machine (Vending Machine)  ·  Stable for Horses/Dockside Farm  ·  Steel Processing Facilities  ·  Storage Facilities with Hazardous Materials/Scrap  ·  Supermarkets  ·  Swimming Pools (Including Multi-Tenant Facilities), Ponds and Fountains and Water Slides/Bath House  ·  Tattoo/Piercing Parlors  ·  Taxidermist  ·  Urinals (Siphon jet blowout), Trough Urinals  ·  Vending Machines  ·  Vegetable Processing Facilities  ·  Veterinary Clinics/Offices/Labs  ·  Waterhouse Facilities with hazardous materials (Toxic Chemicals, etc.)  ·  Zoos  

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Fire - FAQs

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1. How can I sign up for Fire Safety Education Classes?

The Alamogordo Fire Department offers free fire safety education classes. These classes are available to any commercial, public, private or civic group in the City of Alamogordo. Classes are held at the requesting party's location in the City of Alamogordo. For more information, visit our Fire Safety Education Class page.

2. How do I request a public record?

By law, under the Inspection of Public Records Act, every person has the right to inspect public records of the City of Alamogordo, New Mexico. The Act also makes compliance with requests to inspect public records an integral part of the routine duties of the officers and employees of the City of Alamogordo, New Mexico. For more information on how to do this, visit our Request for Public Records page.

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Footer FAQs

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1. What projects require a building permit?

A building permit is required to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish or change the occupancy of any commercial or residential building or structure. This includes:

• Accessory Buildings
• Curb Cuts
• Pools
• Signs
• Other Projects and Repairs to Be Determined by the Building Official

2. We can no longer care for our family pet. What options are available to us?

If you have to get rid of your pet for any reason, there are many options available. You can advertise in the local newspaper or on the radio. Most newspapers and radio stations offer free advertisements for pet giveaway. Local supermarkets have bulletin boards and allow pet owners to place flyers on these. Animal Control also has two bulletin boards. One is located inside the building and the other is located outside on the Southern wall. 

If none of these resources work or if you must give your pet away immediately, you can do an owner impound at Animal Control for a $20 fee. If you do an owner impound please bring any shot records, vet records, and tags for your pet. These can greatly increase the chance of adoption for you pet.

Visit Animal Control at:
2910 N Florida Avenue
Alamogordo, NM 88310

For more information, call Animal Control at 575-439-4330.

3. Does Animal Control have a volunteer program? If so, how do I volunteer and what would my duties be?

Animal Control welcomes and appreciates volunteers. To volunteer just pick up an application at Animal Control, fill it out, and we will contact you when your application has been approved. Volunteers are used primarily to socialize the animals. This helps prepare them for adoption and also gives them the attention that is important for any prospective pet. Volunteers can also walk dogs and assist with adoptions. Volunteers can choose the hours they work between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., 7 days a week. Any time spent volunteering is greatly appreciated.

Pick up an application at:
2910 N Florida Avenue
Alamogordo, NM 88310

For more information, call Animal Control at 575-439-4330.

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How Do I?

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1. How do I find city hall?

We are located at:
1376 E Ninth Street
Alamogordo, NM 88310

We are between Oregon and Washington Boulevards on the south side of Ninth Street. 

Our hours are:
8 a.m. - 12 p.m.
1 p.m. - 5 p.m.
Monday - Friday

City Hall is closed for observation of the following holidays:

• New Year’s Day
• Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
• President’s Day
• Memorial Day
• Independence Day
• Labor Day
• Thanksgiving The Friday following Thanksgiving (Veterans’ Day Observed)
• Christmas Day

2. How do I find out about public transportation?

Z-Trans is operated by the Zia Therapy Center in conjunction with the City of Alamogordo. It serves Alamogordo, Holloman AFB, La Luz, Tularosa, Mescalero and Las Cruces. For up-to-date information on the three routes and their schedules, you may contact them by phone at 575-439-4971 or visit at:
900 First Street
Alamogordo, NM 88310

3. How do I become a member of the Senior Center?

If you or your spouse are 60 years of age or older, you may join the Senior Center. Call 575-439-4150 or visit the Senior Center Website for more information. The City appreciates a $10.00 donation for registering as a member.

4. How do I sign up for water, garbage and sewer?

Visit a Customer Service window at:

City Hall
1376 E Ninth Street
Alamogordo, NM 88310

You may also call City Hall at 575-439-4260. Monthly billing varies with meter size and monthly usage. To begin service, residents pay between $70 and $210 plus a $25 application fee.

5. How do I know when I may water my lawn?

View the outdoor watering schedule to see when you can water your lawn.

6. How do I reach my commissioner?

Call the City Clerk’s office at 575-439-4100 or visit the City Commission page for a district map, which includes Commissioners’ contact information.

7. How do I apply for a business registration?

Anyone operating any for-profit business must register with the City. Obtain an application at City Hall or print the Business Registration Application and return it to City Hall.

8. How do I find out when my trash pick-up is scheduled?

Regular trash is picked up twice a week; however, if you have oversized items for pick-up, you need to call your trash collection company to schedule a pick-up. The number for Southwest Disposal Corp is 575-434-1109.

9. How do I report a water outage?

You may contact Public Works to report a water outage at 575-439-4244 during regular business hours. After hours, contact 575-439-4300.

Or click HERE to do an online report.

10. How do I find out about city street closures or water outages?

Public Service announcements are given on the local radio stations, are printed in the Alamogordo Daily News, are posted on this website and posted to the City's Facebook Page. You may contact Public Works to report a water outage at 575-439-4244 during regular business hours. After hours, contact 575-439-4300

11. How do I learn about recreational activities?

The City Community Services Department publishes an annual booklet that contains scheduled activities for the entire year. This publication is updated every May. You may get information from the calendar posted on this website, call 575-439-4142 or visit the Recreation Center at:
1100 Oregon Avenue
Alamogordo, NM 88310

The Recreation Center is open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Fridays, 1 to 6 p.m. on Saturdays.

12. How do I find out when the City Commission meets?

The Commission generally meets in the Commission Chambers at City Hall at 1376 E. Ninth Street. View the Commission Meeting Calendar (PDF).

13. How do I find information on the City’s budget?

You may request a copy of the City budget by completing a request form at the City Clerk’s office and paying a nominal fee for the copies. The City operates on a July to June fiscal year with public budget hearings held in May at a City facility announced in the Alamogordo Daily News.
You may view Finance Documents (PDF).

14. How do I offer suggestions to the City?

Suggestions of any nature may be turned in to the City Clerk at:
City Hall
1376 E Ninth Street
Alamogordo, NM 88310

Or send feedback to Alamogordo.

15. How do I report a stray animal?

Call Animal Control at 575-439-4330 or visit their office:

2910 N Florida Avenue
Alamogordo, NM 88310

16. How do I get rid of big objects that will not fit into my garbage can?

Call Southwest Disposal at 575-434-1109 to schedule a pick-up date and time.

17. How do I contact the City with a complaint?

Call the City Clerk’s Office at 575-439-4100. They will want to know the nature of the complaint so they can direct your call to the correct department or person. Or take the citizen opinion and feedback survey to send feedback.

18. How do I pay my property tax?

The Otero County Treasurer collects property tax. Contact their office by calling 575-437-2030, or go to 

1000 N New York Avenue
Alamogordo, NM 88310

You can also visit their website for more information.

19. How do I register to vote?

You may register at the Otero County Clerk’s office:

1104 N White Sands Boulevard, Suite C
Alamogordo, NM 88310

20. How do I pay my court fines or traffic citations online?

If the "Penalty Assessment" box is marked at the bottom of your citation, you have 30 days to pay your fine from the date you received the citation. Find options to pay here.

21. How do I request to be on the City Commission agenda?

In order to submit your request, simply fill out and return the Agenda Request Form (PDF) by the appropriate deadline. For a list of deadlines, view the 2021 Commission Calendar (PDF).

22. How do I find out if a property is in a flood zone?

Visit the GIS webpage, and select Alamogordo Public Map. In the upper right hand corner click on the Layer List Icon (3rd from the left). Scroll down and check the box for "FEMA_Flood_Zones_2018". The floodplain layer will turn on after a few seconds of loading. In the upper left search box you can type in an address and the map will zoom in to that location. You can also contact the Planning and Zoning Department at 575-439-4220 or email the Planning and Zoning Department.

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Library

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1. ...get a library card

Otero County residents, kindergarten age or older, are eligible to apply for a library card.  (Patrons under the age of 18 require signature of parent or guardian on the registration card.)

Driver's license or other picture ID with current Otero County address is required. (If driver's license is out of state, two other documents displaying local address are required.)

Visit the circulation desk in the library. Bring your photo ID and other documentation, as needed. Once your information has been verified and entered into the system, you will receive your card. This usually takes about 15 minutes. (Please note: Library cards cannot be issued within 15 minutes of closing time.)  

Nonresident cards are available for $15.00
Replacement fee for lost cards is $5.25  

2. ...suggest something be added to the collection?

The Librarians are happy to review suggestions for items to add to our collection. Visit, call, or email the reference desk to submit your suggestion to the librarians. Please include your name and library card number with submissions. Librarians use training, expertise, and experience to provide the best collection possible for our users and cannot guarantee that we will purchase all items suggested by users. Reference desk: 575.439.4148 

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Planning and Zoning

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1. What projects require a building permit?

A building permit is required to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish or change the occupancy of any commercial or residential building or structure. This includes:

• Accessory Buildings
• Curb Cuts
• Pools
• Signs
• Other Projects and Repairs to Be Determined by the Building Official

2. What projects do not require a building permit?

Cosmetic alterations including (but not limited to): paint, trim, floors, tile, etc.

3. When should I apply for a permit?

A building permit must be taken out before construction begins on any project.

4. Who should obtain the permit?

Commercial construction requires the permit to be taken out by a contractor who is licensed by the State of New Mexico and currently holds a New Mexico State License and if their business is located in the City of Alamogordo they will be required to hold a City of Alamogordo Business License.

Residential construction permits can either be taken out by a homeowner who owns and occupies the single family residence in question or by a licensed contractor (who currently holds a New Mexico State License).

Electrical, Plumbing, and Mechanical permits shall only be obtained by licensed contractors (who currently hold a New Mexico State License).

5. How do I obtain a permit?

The City of Alamogordo no longer issues building permits, however any work that is being done within the City limits of Alamogordo will need to come through our office for an Ordinance Review.

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Police - FAQs

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1. How do I safely discard prescription & over the counter drugs?

A secure drop box is located in the main lobby of the police station at 700 Virginia Ave. 

Pills should be placed in a clear zip lock bag, mixed together, and without bottles. 

Liquids are not accepted. Liquid medications can be poured onto coffee grounds or kitty litter, placed in a plastic grocery bag, and thrown in the common household garbage. 

To discard syringes, contact the Otero County Public Health office at 1207 8th St. or 575-437-9347. 

For more info or questions, please call 575-434-4304 or email the Alamogordo Police Department.

2. How much do crash or incident reports cost?

Reports cost $1.05 per page. We accept cash or check only. No credit cards.

Crash reports can be purchased online. BuyCrash

Incident reports can be requested online  

More information about online report requests

3. I need to be fingerprinted. Where do I go and what is the cost?

• Currently, the Alamogordo Police Department does not provide digital/electronic fingerprint submissions to the general public.  If digital/electronic fingerprinting is what you need, please go to the Gemalto website to register and pay.  After you are registered, you will go to Print Plus, located at 901 Texas Ave #B to be printed.
• For standard ink hard card fingerprinting, please come to the Alamogordo Police Department, located at 700 Virginia Ave. between the hours of 8:00 am and 5:00 pm Monday through Friday.  There is generally less wait time between the hours of 9:00 am and 4:00 pm Monday through Thursday.
• Fingerprints are done for a charge of $2.10 per card.  We do not supply the cards.  Whoever is requesting that you be printed, generally will supply the cards.  If not, you can go to the FBI website and print out cards on your own card stock paper using this link: FBI Standard Fingerprint Form
• When filling out the cards, please print legibly and use BLACK INK ONLY.

4. I need to get a background check done on myself for a job. Where do I go and what is the cost?

We provide local background checks to citizens free of charge. This is only a check within the City of Alamogordo and within the Alamogordo Police Department.  

For county and state checks, you will need to go to each agency and request a background check from them. 

If a national background check is needed, please see the FBI website for more information. FBI Background Check Information

5. Is my crash/incident report ready?

You can call 575-439-4300 Monday-Friday between the hours of 8:00 am - 5:00 pm to inquire about the status of your report.  Please have your report number or date of incident ready.

6. My neighbor's dog won't stop barking. Who do I call?

If this is happening during regular business hours, please contact Animal Control at (575) 439-4330

After hours, call the non-emergency line at (575) 439-4300.  Please keep in mind that there may be higher priority calls ahead of you.

7. Where can I access the city's Code of Ordinances?

You can access the City of Alamogordo's Code of Ordinances online.

8. Where do I pick up my crash or incident report?

All reports can be picked up at the Alamogordo Police Department during business hours of 8:00 am and 5:00 pm Monday through Friday.

In some cases, for an additional charge, arrangements may be made to have your reports mailed or emailed to you. 

Crash reports are also available online at the BuyCrash website.

9. What do I need to do to file a restraining order against someone?

Restraining orders and orders of protection are filed through District Court.  You can get more information and download applications from the District Court website. District Court Forms and Information

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Water Production

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1. Where do I go for information on water quality?

Each year the City of Alamogordo is required to publish an annual water quality report (Consumer Confidence Report). Visit our Water Quality Report section for more information. 

2. Who do I call regarding bad taste, color odor or low water pressure?

Contact our Water Treatment Division Office at (575) 437-5991 during normal business hours or (575) 439-4300 outside of normal business hours.

3. What is the typical water hardness (on scale) for water in my area? The City of Alamogordo’s tap water is considered to be “very hard,” because of the minerals such as calcium in the rock f

The City of Alamogordo’s tap water is considered to be “very hard,” because of the minerals such as calcium in the rock formations from which we draw water. This water contains 34–39 grains of hardness per gallon. There are no harmful health effects associated with these minerals (in fact, some believe they are beneficial), but measuring them does provide a guideline as to how water use may be affected. For example, hard water does result in more scale buildup and you need to use more soap and detergents.

4. My water looks cloudy. Who should I call for help?

During regular business hours (7:00 am-3:30 pm), call our Water Treatment Division Office at (575) 437-5991. After hours, please call our dispatch center at (575) 439-4300. These locations handle questions and complaints regarding the odor, taste, and color of water. The cloudiness is usually the result of tiny air bubbles in the water.  If you fill a clear glass and let it sit, after a while, the bubbles rise to the top and are gone.  This occurs more often in the winter when the water is cold. Sometimes, this can be caused by a plumbing problem or the result of a recent water line failure.

5. What should I do if my water is discolored?

If you experience discolored water, contact our Water Treatment Division Office at (575) 437-5991 during normal business hours or (575) 439-4300 outside of normal business hours. Provide us with as much information as possible, including time and date the problem started, location, and your best description of the problem.

The City of Alamogordo Water system has been in operation for more than 100 years, and some of the water mains are made of cast iron.  Whenever the water velocity or flow direction changes from normal, iron sediment from these old mains is picked up by the water and shows up as discoloration.  Incidents that can cause this include:

Fire hydrant testing – causes a temporary increase in water velocity as fire crews check hydrant operation.

Water main breaks – cause a temporary increase in flow velocity and in some cases also cause a reversal in the normal flow direction of the water.

In these situations, the water is safe to drink.  However, use care as the iron can stain laundry and plumbing fixtures.

6. Do I need to filter the water coming into my house?

No. If you choose to install a filter, there are some issues to keep in mind.  A water filter is like any other piece of equipment – it must be maintained.  If a filter is not properly maintained, it can break down and degrade your water quality.