N.M. Admin. Code § 20.4.5 § 2
SCOPE
Operative Text
This part applies to all law enforcement agencies who discover a clandestine drug laboratory, all persons who own a clandestine drug laboratory property, and all persons engaging in remediation of a clandestine drug laboratory. [20.4.5.2 NMAC - N, 1/01/2008]
NMAC 20.4.5 establishes who is covered by New Mexico's clandestine drug laboratory regulations. The rule applies to three groups: law enforcement agencies that discover such a site, property owners whose property contains or contained a clandestine drug lab, and any individuals or companies performing cleanup and remediation work at those sites. By defining this broad scope, the provision sets the foundation for all subsequent requirements in the regulation.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under NMAC 20.4.5, property owners are explicitly named as covered parties when their property is identified as a clandestine drug laboratory site. Compliant property owners generally familiarize themselves with the full set of obligations that follow from this scope provision, since being subject to the regulation triggers specific duties related to disclosure, remediation, and clearance. Staying informed about the downstream requirements of NMAC 20.4.5 is a standard practice for operators managing properties in New Mexico.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
NMAC 20.4.5 means that if a rental property has been used as a clandestine drug laboratory, the regulation's full framework applies to that property and its owner. Tenants who suspect or learn that their home may have been a drug lab site may have grounds to raise concerns under this regulatory framework, including contacting local health or environmental authorities. Tenant-rights organizations familiar with New Mexico housing law can help explain what protections and remedies may be available under the broader NMAC 20.4.5 regulatory scheme.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated October 26, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
Effective Timeline
References Out
No outbound references recorded yet for this provision.
References In
No inbound references recorded yet for this provision.