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Lubbock, TX Animal Ordinances: Beekeeping (2026)

Light Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified April 2026

Key Facts

Setback
10 feet from property line typical
Flyway Barrier
6 feet if near neighbor
Water Source
On-site required
State Registration
TX Ag Code Ch. 131 (6+ hives)

Summary

Beekeeping is allowed in Lubbock with hive setbacks from property lines and a flyway barrier where hives face a neighbor. Texas Agriculture Code Ch. 131 governs apiary registration with more than 6 hives.

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. (d) The chief apiary inspector may charge a fee for each registration issued under this section.

Source: TX Apiary Inspection ServiceView official code

Full Breakdown

Lubbock permits residential beekeeping as an accessory use in most zoning districts. Typical requirements include hive placement at least 10 feet from any property line, a flyway barrier (6-foot fence or dense hedge) between the hive entrance and neighboring property within 25 feet, and a continuous water source on the beekeeper's property to prevent bees from congregating at neighbor pools. Apiaries with 6 or more colonies must register with the Texas Apiary Inspection Service under Texas Agriculture Code Chapter 131. The dry plains climate and cotton/crop pollination needs make beekeeping viable year round with winter protections.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit for backyard bees in Lubbock?
No city permit for small apiaries, but registration with the Texas Apiary Inspection Service is required once you reach 6 colonies.
Can neighbors force removal of hives?
Only if hives violate setback, lack a flyway barrier, or cause documented nuisance.

Sources & Official References

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All Lubbock rules

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