Coral Gables, FL Animal Ordinances: Beekeeping (2026)
Key Facts
- State Preemption
- Local bans prohibited
- Registration
- FDACS required
- Annual Inspection
- FDACS disease check
- Water Source
- On-site required
- Governing Law
- FL Statute Ch. 586
Summary
Beekeeping in Coral Gables is governed by Florida Statute Section 586 and Miami-Dade County regulations. State law preempts local governments from banning beekeeping on residential property but allows reasonable best management practice requirements. Beekeepers must register with the Florida Department of Agriculture and follow state-mandated hive management standards.
586.10  Powers and duties of department; preemption of local government ordinances. — (1)  The authority to regulate, inspect, and permit managed honeybee colonies and to adopt rules on the placement and location of registered inspected managed honeybee colonies is preempted to the state through the department and supersedes any related ordinance adopted by a county, municipality, or political subdivision thereof. (2)  The department shall: (a)  Administer and enforce this chapter.
Official source re-checked September 8, 2026: the cited page had not changed since it was quoted.
Full Breakdown
Florida Statute Chapter 586 establishes a statewide regulatory framework for beekeeping that preempts local bans. Municipalities cannot prohibit beekeeping on residential property but may require compliance with best management practices published by the University of Florida. Beekeepers must register hives with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). Hives must be maintained by a registered beekeeper and inspected annually by FDACS for disease. Colonies must have adequate water sources on-site to prevent bees from seeking water on neighboring properties. Coral Gables Chapter 10 (Animals) provides local animal keeping standards that supplement state requirements. Africanized honey bees pose a particular concern in South Florida and require professional management.
Violations & Fines
Unregistered hives may be removed by FDACS. Nuisance bee complaints handled through Miami-Dade County and Coral Gables Code Enforcement. Contact FDACS Division of Plant Industry for registration. Local complaints to (305) 460-5216.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is beekeeping legal in Coral Gables?
Do I need to register beehives in Coral Gables?
What if my neighbor's bees are a nuisance in Coral Gables?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Coral Gables
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Beekeeping in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Miami-Dade County handle beekeeping.