Davie, FL Animal Ordinances: Beekeeping (2026)

Davie's land development code recognizes beekeeping (apiculture) as an agricultural use. Under the agricultural-use provisions compiled in the Town's Farm Guide, beekeeping is permitted in the RR (Rural Ranches), AG, and A-1 districts on a minimum plot of five (5) acres, provided the hives are located a minimum of 100 feet from all property lines. The same provisions list 'beekeeping' among recognized agricultural uses in the Sec. 12-503 definition of agricultural use. Importantly, the Town itself acknowledges that this local rule is largely overridden by state law: Davie's code (Sec. 12-34(B)(8)(b)) expressly notes that Section 586.10, Florida Statutes 'preempts local government regulations on honeybee colonies.' Florida's Honey Certification and Honeybee Law (Chapter 586, F.S.) gives the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) authority to regulate, inspect, and register honeybee colonies, and Section 586.10 reserves that authority to the state. FDACS requires beekeepers to register their colonies and follow managed-colony rules, including approved-equipment and inspection requirements. The practical effect is that a registered Florida beekeeper following FDACS rules generally cannot be barred or specially regulated by a Davie local ordinance, though land-use placement (such as the five-acre/100-foot standard in agricultural districts) and bona fide farm classification still interact with the Town's zoning scheme. The Florida Right to Farm Act (Sec. 823.14, F.S.) further protects bona fide apiary operations on agriculturally classified land.