The City of Albuquerque has implemented a new ordinance requiring all rental properties to be equipped with cooling systems. Ordinance O-59, which took effect on July 1, 2025, is intended to protect renters from dangerous heat exposure. Since the ordinance was enacted, city officials have received over 60 calls for service and conducted 20 inspections, resulting in the resolution of 19 cooling-related issues.
Mayor Tim Keller emphasized the importance of the measure. “Having cooling in your home isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “This ordinance is about protecting people’s health and well-being and making sure renters are safe during the intense heat of summer”.
The ordinance was sponsored by City Councilor Tammy Fiebelkorn and amends the Uniform Housing Code to require landlords to provide cooling systems in rental housing. The legislation aims not only to address immediate risks from heat waves but also to improve living conditions for residents.
“No one should be forced to endure dangerous heat in their own home,” said Councilor Tammy Fiebelkorn. “Just as we require heat in the winter, this ordinance makes sure cooling is recognized as a basic necessity in the summer. O-59 is about fairness, dignity, and protecting the health of renters across Albuquerque, especially our most vulnerable residents.”
Planning Department Director Alan Varela expressed support for the law: “Avoiding heat stroke and heat exhaustion in the summer is definitely as important as not freezing in the winter,” said Planning Department Director Alan Varela. “We strongly support this law because it helps provide basic safety for renters”.
The city continues efforts to strengthen renter protections. Mayor Keller recently worked with Councilor Fiebelkorn on additional legislation aimed at prohibiting hidden fees and requiring timely repairs; however, that bill did not advance past committee review. Separately, Mayor Keller has launched Housing NOW—a policy agenda focused on modernizing zoning laws, removing barriers to building affordable housing, supporting renovations and conversions of underused properties into housing units, streamlining permitting processes, and involving neighborhoods in development decisions.
Residents experiencing issues with cooling systems are encouraged to call 311.
