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Fayetteville, AR Animal Ordinances: Beekeeping (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified July 2026

Key Facts

Hives
2, up to 4 by lot size
Setback
20 ft from fenced line
Registration
Arkansas State Plant Board
Africanized Bees
Prohibited
Water
Within 20 ft of hive

Summary

Fayetteville allows backyard beehives under UDC Sec. 164.04: two hives on lots up to 5,000 sq ft, up to four on larger lots. Hives sit 20 feet from a fenced property line, must be registered with the state, and Africanized bees are banned.

A maximum of two (2) hives shall be allowed on lots 5,000 square feet and smaller. For lots larger than 5,000 square feet, one (1) additional hive shall be allowed for every additional 2,500 square feet up to a maximum of four (4) hives. All hives shall be located at least 20 feet from a securely fenced property line. Hives shall be located a minimum of 100 feet from an unfenced property line.

Source: Fayetteville Unified Development CodeView official code

Full Breakdown

Beekeeping is lawful at single-family and educational properties under Sec. 164.04(C). Lots 5,000 sq ft and under may keep two hives; larger lots add one hive per additional 2,500 sq ft, up to a maximum of four. Hives must sit at least 20 feet from a securely fenced property line, or 100 feet from an unfenced line, in the side or rear yard, with fresh water within 20 feet. Every hive must be registered with the Arkansas State Plant Board under the Arkansas Apiary Act and labeled with the beekeeper's name, contact, and state registry number. Africanized honey bees are prohibited, and aggressive colonies must be re-queened or removed.

Violations & Fines

Unregistered hives violate the Arkansas Apiary Act. Local violations of Sec. 164.04 draw fines up to $500 (minimum $50) and up to $250 per day for continuing offenses. Aggressive colonies must be re-queened or removed at the keeper's expense.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I keep bees in Fayetteville?
Yes. Two hives are allowed on lots up to 5,000 sq ft, more on larger lots up to four. Hives must be registered with the state and set back from property lines.
Do I have to register my hives?
Yes. Fayetteville requires every hive to be registered with the Arkansas State Plant Board and labeled with your name, contact information, and state registry number.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Fayetteville

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All Fayetteville rules

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