Albuquerque Continues to Crack Down on Problem Motels with New Law

ALBUQUERQUE- The City has passed a new law aimed at cleaning up problem properties that attract crime and threaten public safety. Ordinance O-25-75, also known as the Distressed Lodging Ordinance, gives the City stronger tools to address hotels and motels that have become chronic nuisances in their neighborhoods.

The ordinance targets establishments with a history of tax evasion, city code violations, or nuisance activity—many of which are tied to issues like drug trafficking, violence, and dangerous living conditions. Under the new rules, hotels and motels meeting any of the following criteria will face enhanced oversight:

• Skipping hospitality tax payments for three straight months
• Repeated violations of the Nuisance Abatement Ordinance
• Three or more separate City ordinance violations in a year

"This is about holding bad actors accountable and going after problem properties who allow crime and unsafe conditions to fester,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “We're sending a clear message: crime-friendly properties have no place in our city.”

Properties in violation of the ordinance will be required to log guest stays, retain vehicle info, and maintain records for at least 45 days. Failure to comply can result in a fine of $500 per day for each violation of the ordinance, a lien being filed against the property, or closure of the establishment.

“Most hotels operate legally, but the few who do not will be subject to these basic rules that will help protect their guests and the community,” said Planning Department Director Alan Varela.

In the past seven months, Code Enforcement has shut down the Tewa Lodge, Loma Verde Motel, Bow and Arrow Lodge, the Motel 6 and Days Inn on Iliff Rd, and most recently the Court John Motel on 4^th St. Each of them had unsafe and unsanitary living conditions, high amounts of calls for service, and criminal activity that put the tenants and surrounding neighborhoods at risk. The City will continue to hold negligent property owners accountable and prioritize public safety.