Valencia County services guide: accessing key local government offices

Valencia County residents rely on a handful of county offices for routine transactions, emergency coordination and long-term planning. Knowing which office handles property taxes, voter services, permits or emergency alerts can save time and protect rights for homeowners and voters across Los Lunas, Belen, Bosque Farms, Peralta and Rio Communities.

Property tax matters and payment plans start at the Treasurer’s Office, which handles billing questions, payment arrangements and in-person service needs. Residents should verify current office hours and ask about Saturday or weekend openings during busy tax season before making a trip.

Questions about property valuation, exemptions and appeals belong with the Assessor’s Office. Common exemptions include senior and veteran credits; appeals and documentation requests typically follow published timelines, so bring deeds, appraisal records and other supporting paperwork when contacting the assessor.

The Clerk’s Office administers voter registration, early voting locations and election-day polling places. Confirm polling locations and hours before an election to avoid confusion. The clerk also issues marriage licenses and processes business registrations, making it a multi-purpose point of contact for civic and commercial needs.

Public Works and Solid Waste oversee curbside pickup rules where applicable, transfer station hours and household hazardous or universal waste drop-offs. The office also handles illegal dumping reports; reporting promptly helps protect neighborhood arroyos, drainage channels and public right-of-ways from long-term damage.

Emergency response and notification are coordinated through VRECC, the Valencia Regional Emergency Communications Center, which handles 911 dispatch across the county. For non-emergencies, use local police or the sheriff’s non-emergency numbers. Residents are encouraged to sign up for county emergency alerts and download any local emergency-notification apps or e-notify systems to receive timely warnings about severe weather, evacuation orders or burn bans.

County social and community services connect residents to low-barrier support centers, food distribution sites, senior services and early childhood resources. County offices maintain current lists of community partners and can make referrals for those seeking assistance.

Land use, planning and zoning questions—including subdivision review, platting, drainage and access permits—should be directed to the county planning office. Development projects involving arroyos, stormwater or access points require up-to-date code compliance and public hearing schedules.

Before visiting any office, bring photo ID and relevant documents such as a tax bill, property deed or medical/provider referral. Verify phone numbers, online forms and office hours on the official Valencia County website or by calling the county administration office. For time-sensitive notices like burn bans, election changes or temporary office closures, check municipal pages for Los Lunas, Belen, Bosque Farms, Peralta and Rio Communities. Staying informed and prepared will keep local transactions running smoothly and protect community resources.