Chopping down certain cacti isn’t automatically a jail-worthy offense on your own property, unlike stricter rules for wild collection.
Protected Species
New Mexico designates hedgehog, pincushion, and fishhook cacti as protected under NMSA §76-8-1, prohibiting removal without permits from public, state, or private lands where they naturally grow. Violations constitute misdemeanors with fines up to $1,000 and 120 days imprisonment, not felonies.
Private Property Rules
Homeowners can typically remove common yard cacti like prickly pear or cholla without state permits, as long as they’re not protected natives dug from wild areas. Check local Albuquerque planning or HOA rules for boundaries and disputes; saguaros (rare in NM) follow similar guidelines.
Key Exceptions
Wild harvesting on BLM/state land requires authorization; selling protected plants adds commercial penalties. Always identify species first to avoid fines.
SOURCES
[1](https://www.maventreeservices.com/cactus-removal)
[2](https://www.cactiguide.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=44406)
[3](https://law.justia.com/codes/new-mexico/chapter-76/article-8/section-76-8-1/)
[4](https://www.facebook.com/groups/1253503232075082/posts/2007452713346793/)
[5](https://www.srca.nm.gov/parts/title19/19.021.0002.html)
