No, chopping down a cactus in your New Mexico yard is generally not illegal for common species on private property.
Arizona Contrast
Arizona classifies saguaro cactus destruction as a felony punishable by up to 25 years in prison, even on private land, requiring permits for removal. New Mexico lacks such broad felony penalties for typical yard cacti like prickly pear or cholla.
New Mexico Rules
Property owners can legally remove non-protected cacti from their land without state permits. Exceptions apply to endangered species (e.g., certain pincushion or hedgehog cacti) needing Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department approval, and all plants within 400 yards of public highways. Check local HOAs or zoning for added restrictions.
SOURCES
[1](https://www.maventreeservices.com/post/can-i-legally-cut-down-cacti-on-my-own-land-in-new-mexico)
[2](https://www.facebook.com/groups/1253503232075082/posts/2007452713346793/)
[3](https://www.reddit.com/r/arizona/comments/icuwks/in_arizona_its_illegal_to_cut_down_a_saguaro/)
[4](https://pubs.nmsu.edu/_b/B804/)
[5](https://www.blm.gov/programs/natural-resources/forests-and-woodlands/forest-product-permits)
