Dallas, TX Animal Ordinances: Beekeeping (2026)
Key Facts
- City Ordinance
- None specific
- State Registration
- TAIS under TX Agric. Code Ch. 131
- Local Nuisance
- Chapter 7 applies
- HOA
- May restrict separately
Summary
Dallas does not have a specific beekeeping ordinance. Beekeeping is regulated primarily at the state level by the Texas Apiary Inspection Service (TAIS). General nuisance provisions under Chapter 7 apply if bees create a hazard or nuisance.
Sec. 131.045. BEEKEEPER REGISTRATION. (a) Each beekeeper in this state may register on an annual basis with the chief apiary inspector. A registration under this section expires August 31 following the date the registration is issued.(b) A registration must include:(1) information required by the chief apiary inspector; and(2) the county or counties in which the beekeeper operates.(c) The inspector may require a beekeeper to submit with the registration information a map showing the exact location of each of the beekeeper's apiaries. A map submitted under this section is a trade secret under Chapter 552, Government Code, and may not be disclosed.(d) The chief apiary inspector may charge a fee for each registration issued under this section. The inspector shall set the fee at an amount t...
Full Breakdown
Dallas does not have a standalone beekeeping ordinance. Beekeeping is regulated at the state level by the Texas Apiary Inspection Service (TAIS) under the Texas Agriculture Code Chapter 131. Beekeepers must register hives with TAIS. At the local level, general nuisance provisions of the Dallas Code Chapter 7 (Animals) may apply if bees become a nuisance or hazard to neighbors. The Texas Beekeepers Association recommends maintaining hives with a water source, flyway barriers, and adequate setbacks from property lines as best practices. HOA deed restrictions may separately restrict or prohibit beekeeping.
Violations & Fines
Failure to register with TAIS violates state law. Bee-related nuisance complaints may result in Code Compliance enforcement under general nuisance provisions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep bees in Dallas?
Do I need a permit to keep bees in Dallas?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Dallas
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Dallas to another location·View the Texas animal ordinances overview
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Beekeeping in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Dallas County handle beekeeping.