Skip to main content
CityRuleLookup
Key FactsOrdinance TextFull BreakdownFAQSourcesMore in Laredo

Laredo, TX Animal Ordinances: Beekeeping (2026)

Few Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

City Ban
None
Flyway Barrier
6 feet recommended
Registration
TAIS at Texas AandM
Ag Valuation
5 to 20 acres qualifies
AHB Concern
Requeening recommended

Summary

Beekeeping is allowed in Laredo with common-sense setbacks. Texas registers apiaries through the Texas Apiary Inspection Service. Agricultural property with 5 to 20 acres can qualify for beekeeping ag-use valuation.

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.

Source: Texas Apiary InspectionView official code

Full Breakdown

The City of Laredo does not ban residential beekeeping. Keepers typically place hives at least 10 to 25 feet from property lines with a 6-foot flyway barrier to direct bees upward. The Texas Apiary Inspection Service (TAIS) at Texas AandM administers state registration for apiaries of 6 or more colonies. Texas Tax Code 23.51 allows tracts of 5 to 20 acres to qualify for open-space ag valuation through beekeeping, a significant tax benefit for Webb County landowners. Africanized honey bees are present in South Texas, so requeening with European stock is widely recommended for urban hives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a city permit to keep bees?
No. Laredo does not require a permit. Follow setbacks and register with TAIS if you have 6 or more colonies.
Can bees lower my property taxes?
Yes. Tracts of 5 to 20 acres can qualify for ag valuation through beekeeping under Texas Tax Code 23.51.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Laredo

Dog Leash LawsLight RestrictionsChickens & LivestockSome RestrictionsParking Rules: RV & Boat ParkingSignificant RestrictionsMicrochippingLight RestrictionsMandatory Spay/NeuterSome RestrictionsPet Groomer RulesSome RestrictionsCat RulesSome RestrictionsPet Store RulesSome RestrictionsVeterinary Clinic ZoningSome RestrictionsWildlife FeedingSignificant RestrictionsExotic PetsHeavy RestrictionsBreed RestrictionsSome RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Aircraft NoiseSignificant RestrictionsParking Rules: Curb Color RulesSome RestrictionsFence Regulations: Retaining WallsSome RestrictionsLandscaping Rules: Tree Removal & Heritage TreesSignificant RestrictionsLandscaping Rules: Rainwater HarvestingLight Restrictions

All Laredo rules

Texas rules heatmap·Compare Laredo to another location·View the Texas animal ordinances overview

Get notified when Beekeeping in Laredo, TX changes

We'll email you the moment we detect a change in the code. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.

We'll never sell or share your email. One-click unsubscribe in every email.

See something wrong?

Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.