Volusia County, FL Animal Ordinances: Beekeeping (2026)
Key Facts
- Registration
- Required with FDACS
- Preemption
- State preempts local bans
- Colony Limit (¼ acre)
- 3 colonies max
- Mosquito Control
- Sprays after sunset for bees
Summary
Beekeeping in Volusia County is governed by Florida state law (FL §586). FDACS preempts local bans. Registration is required. Volusia County Mosquito Control tracks hive locations and conducts adulticide spraying after sunset to protect bees.
586.01 Short title. - This chapter shall be known as the “Florida Honey Certification and Honeybee Law.” History. - s. 9, ch. 28167, 1953; s. 1, ch. 86-62. 586.02 Definitions. - As used in this chapter: (1) “Apiary” means a beeyard or site where honeybee hives, honeybees, or honeybee equipment is located. (2) “Apiculture” means the raising, caring for, and breeding of honeybees. (3) “Beekeeping equipment” means honeybee hives, frames, supers, pallets, queen excluders, and other equipment which is used in the cultivation of honeybees and the harvesting of products produced by honeybees. (4) “Certified honey” means honey that is sampled, analyzed, and certified by the department to be primarily of one type from a principal nectar source.
Full Breakdown
Florida law requires all beekeepers to register colonies with FDACS. The department preempts local bans on beekeeping except for HOA-restricted communities. Best Management Practices limit colonies by lot size: 3 on quarter-acre, 6 on half-acre, 10 on one acre. Volusia County Mosquito Control maintains a record of beehive locations and times adulticide spraying after sunset when bees are in hives.
Violations & Fines
Unauthorized hives: removal order. Nuisance complaints: fines. Africanized bee swarms: emergency removal by FDACS.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep bees in my backyard in Volusia County?
What are the beekeeping regulations in Volusia County?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Volusia County
Florida rules heatmap·Compare Volusia County to another location·View the Florida animal ordinances overview
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