El Paso, TX Animal Ordinances: Beekeeping (2026)
Key Facts
- State Registration
- TX Ag Code Ch. 131 via TAIS
- Setback
- 10 ft from property lines
- Flyway Barrier
- 6 ft tall to redirect flight
- Water
- On-site water source required
- Requeening
- Recommended due to Africanized bees
Summary
Beekeeping is permitted in El Paso subject to Texas Agriculture Code Chapter 131 (registration) and city setback rules.
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.
Full Breakdown
Texas Agriculture Code Chapter 131 requires beekeepers with hives to register with the Texas Apiary Inspection Service annually. El Paso permits hobby beekeeping in most residential zones. Best practice and city code recommend hive placement at least 10 feet from property lines, a permanent water source to reduce drinking at neighbor pools, and flyway barriers (fences or shrubs) at least 6 feet tall to push bee flight paths above pedestrian height. Africanized honey bees are present in El Paso, so hobbyists should requeen with European Italian queens to maintain docile colonies.
Violations & Fines
Violation of setback or nuisance rules: $100 to $500 and required hive relocation. Failure to register with TAIS: civil penalty under Ch. 131.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep bees in my El Paso backyard?
Do I need a permit for El Paso beekeeping?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in El Paso
Texas rules heatmap·Compare El Paso to another location·View the Texas animal ordinances overview
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