Village of Ruidoso Utility Rates

Utility Rate Adjustments Effective July 2026

Village of Ruidoso utility rate adjustments took effect in July 2026 and are reflected in August billing cycles.

The Village accounts for its utilities under enterprise (business activity) funds. This means utility rates are set to ensure that sufficient revenue is generated to cover both operating and capital expenses. Until the adoption of the Utility Rate Analysis in June 2024, utility rates had not been increased since 2014.

The Utility Rate Analysis reviewed long-term master plans for infrastructure improvements and projected operating cost increases. Based on this analysis, a structured plan was adopted to gradually increase utility rates each year through Fiscal Year 2032.

July 2026 Rate Adjustments

The rate increases effective July 2026 are:

  • Water: 12%

  • Sewer: 8%

  • Wastewater: 5%

  • Solid Waste and Forestry: 30%

The Village has benefited from supplemental funding mechanisms, such as the State Gross Receipts Tax (SGRT) and the General Obligation (GO) Bond funding cycle, which have supported water infrastructure improvements. However, other utilities, such as sewer, solid waste, forestry and wastewater, do not have access to similar external funding sources for major upgrades and improvements.

Future projections assume a baseline of 40% grant funding to help offset infrastructure costs.

The Village appreciates the community’s understanding and support as it works to maintain and improve essential utility services for current and future residents.

Current Water Rates

The Village of Ruidoso water rates below are effective July 2026. Rates vary by customer type, water usage, and whether service is located inside or outside Village limits.

Residential Water Rates

Base Rate

  • Inside Village limits: $45.85

  • Outside Village limits: $91.69

Commodity Charges

  • 3,001–5,000 gallons: $8.13 per 1,000 gallons

  • 5,001–7,000 gallons: $9.48 per 1,000 gallons

  • 7,001–11,000 gallons: $18.96 per 1,000 gallons

  • 11,001–15,000 gallons: $27.10 per 1,000 gallons

  • 15,001–20,000 gallons: $40.64 per 1,000 gallons

  • Over 20,000 gallons: $56.89 per 1,000 gallons

Commercial Water Rates

Base Rate

  • Inside Village limits: $45.85

  • Outside Village limits: $91.69

Commodity Charges

  • 3,001–50,000 gallons: $8.13 per 1,000 gallons

  • 50,001–250,000 gallons: $9.48 per 1,000 gallons

  • Over 250,000 gallons: $11.51 per 1,000 gallons

Fire Protection Service

Fixed Monthly Charge

  • 2-inch service: $30.00

  • 4-inch service: $40.00

  • 6-inch service: $50.00

  • 8-inch service: $60.00

Permit Fee for Fire Hydrant Use: $1,500.00, with $1,000.00 refundable upon return of the meter in good condition.

For questions about water rates or your utility bill, contact Village of Ruidoso Utility Billing at 575-258-4343.

Scheduled Water Rate Adjustments

  • 2024-2025: 12%

  • 2025-2026: 12%

  • 2026-2027: 8%

  • 2027-2028: 8%

  • 2028-2029: 6%

  • 2029-2030: 6%

  • 2030-2031: 3%

  • Annually from 2031-2032: 3%

Scheduled Sewer Rate Adjustments

  • 2024-2025: 9%

  • 2025-2026: 8%