Chattanooga, TN Animal Ordinances: Beekeeping (2026)
Key Facts
- Location
- Rear yard only
- Setback
- 25 ft from all lot lines
- Flyway height
- 6 ft minimum
- State registration
- TN Apiary Act of 1995
Summary
Chattanooga's zoning code confines backyard beehives to rear yards, set back 25 feet from every lot line, and requires a flyway barrier plus state apiary registration.
(b)Apiary .....(1)All apiaries must comply with and register as required with the Tennessee Apiary Act of 1995. .....(2)Hives are allowed only in rear yards. .....(3)Hives must be set back 25 feet from all lot lines. .....(4)When the apiary is located within a yard not bounded by a solid wall or solid fence, a flyway of at least six feet in height comprising of a lattice fence, dense hedge, or similar barrier must be established in front of the opening of the hive such that the bees fly upward and away from neighboring properties.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 40 Update 1).
Full Breakdown
Chattanooga's accessory-structure standards allow hives only in rear yards, set back a minimum of 25 feet from all lot lines. If the yard isn't enclosed by a solid wall or fence, the keeper must install a six-foot flyway barrier, a lattice fence, dense hedge, or similar screen, within three feet of the hive opening, extending two feet on each side, so bees fly up and away from neighbors. Rooftop apiaries within 20 feet of a neighboring building's doors or windows need the same flyway, or a hive opening turned away from those openings. Every apiary must also register under the Tennessee Apiary Act of 1995.
Violations & Fines
The Land Development Office can require relocation to a compliant rear-yard setback, installation of a missing flyway, or removal of a nonconforming hive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep beehives in my front yard in Chattanooga?
Do I need a flyway barrier for backyard hives?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Chattanooga
Compare Chattanooga to another location·View the Tennessee animal ordinances overview
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