Mexico City tightens and modernizes its environmental framework by defining new rules for inspection, air quality, and permits

On May 20, 2026, the Decree issuing the Regulation of the Environmental Law of Mexico City was published in the Official Gazette of Mexico City, thereby abrogating the Regulation of the Environmental Law of the Federal District (originally published on December 3, 1997). The regulation enters into force the day following its publication, that is, on May 21, 2026.

This is due to the fact that on July 18, 2024, the Environmental Law of Mexico City was published, which abrogated the former Environmental Law for the Protection of the Earth in Mexico City. Said law recognizes and regulates the protection of the rights of nature as a collective entity subject to rights, and establishes the principles for formulating, conducting, and evaluating the environmental policy of the city.

Key aspects of the new regulation

Scope and application. The regulation is of general observance in Mexico City and its enforcement is the responsibility of the Ministry of the Environment (SEDEMA), with suppletory application of the Administrative Procedure Law of Mexico City.

Environmental prohibitions. The following are expressly prohibited: burning, depositing, discharging, or infiltrating materials or waste in the open air; altering emissions from fixed or mobile sources to evade permitted limits; discharging polluting materials into the drainage and sewage system; and mixing waste from different management categories.

Obligations on urban land. Those who carry out programs, works, or activities on urban land must prevent and minimize waste generation, reuse or recycle a minimum of 60% of the waste generated, and restore vegetation cover as a compensation measure.

Air Quality Management Program. The program must be aligned with the National Development Plan, local and climate change programs, as well as national and local public policies on the matter. SEDEMA will be responsible for its design, implementation, and monitoring.

Inspection and surveillance. The procedure for fact-finding, visits, and inspection acts is regulated in detail. Among the most relevant aspects are:

• The possibility for SEDEMA to conduct fact-finding through authorized personnel by means of a duly grounded and motivated commission letter.
• Inspection visits may be attended by any person present at the location without affecting the validity of the proceeding.
• Technological means are incorporated as valid evidence within the proceedings.
• The possibility of requesting the support of public security forces in case of resistance by private parties is contemplated.

Alternative dispute resolution mechanisms (mediation). Persons who engage in certain conducts (Articles 303 and 304, Sections II and III of the Law), without being repeat offenders, may request mediation within 5 business days following the inspection visit. In the event that no agreement is reached, the time limits for initiating administrative contentious proceedings will resume.

Administrative acts resulting in permits. The granting of permits for the use, enjoyment, exploitation, and development of spaces assigned to SEDEMA is regulated, applicable to activities compatible with environmental, educational, recreational, cultural, and tourism functions in natural protected areas, areas of environmental value, conservation land, and wildlife conservation management units, considering the following key points:

• The maximum term shall be ten years, renewable on two occasions for the same period.
• The consideration to be paid shall be determined through a valuation opinion issued by the General Directorate of Real Estate Assets.
• The grounds for termination are regulated, including conclusion of the term, waiver, revocation, and causes of public utility.

Recommendations for companies

Companies, real estate developers, and individuals or legal entities carrying out activities subject to environmental regulation in Mexico City must review their internal procedures to ensure compliance with the new provisions, particularly with regard to the minimum 60% recycling obligations, inspection and surveillance procedures, and the requirements for obtaining and maintaining environmental permits.