Updated July 2026
New Mexico Wakesurfing Rules
What the rule says
New Mexico has no statewide wakesurfing-specific law. Teak surfing/platform dragging is prohibited; towing is barred within 150 feet of docks, ramps, boats, anglers and swimmers and is not allowed from one hour after sunset to one hour before sunrise; PFDs are required for towed riders. As of Jan 1, 2025, State Parks expanded mandatory life-jacket rules. No wake-surf-specific distance/depth/acreage thresholds exist statewide.
Source: New Mexico Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department, State Parks Division. The linked statute or agency page is the authority — wake-sport law is changing quickly in many states, so confirm there before you ride.
Statewide rules are the floor, not the whole picture
Individual lakes routinely add stricter limits on top of the state rule — no-wake zones, time-of-day windows, horsepower caps, and wider shoreline setbacks are all set locally by counties, lake districts, and land managers. Check the local authority for the specific water before launching.
Best-rated New Mexico lakes
- ExcellentConchas Reservoir
- ExcellentElephant Butte Reservoir
- ExcellentNavajo Reservoir
- ExcellentUte Reservoir
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