Mesquite, TX Animal Ordinances: Beekeeping (2026)
Key Facts
- City Ordinance
- No specific beekeeping rules
- State Law
- TX Agriculture Code Ch. 131
- Registration
- State apiary registration required
- Contact
- Planning: 972-216-6216
Summary
Mesquite does not have a specific beekeeping ordinance. Texas state law (Apiary Inspection Act, Agriculture Code Ch. 131) governs beekeeping statewide. Local zoning restrictions may apply.
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. Sec. 131.061. IDENTIFICATION REQUIRED. (a) Except as provided by Subsection (b), a person may not operate an apiary in this state unless the hives are: (1) clearly and permanently marked with the name of the person... or (3) identified by a weatherproof sign posted within the apiary containing the name and contact information or the brand number of the person managing the apiary, printed in lettering at least one inch high. (b) An apiary at the principal residence of a beekeeper is exempt from the requirements of Subsection (a).
Full Breakdown
Mesquite does not specifically address beekeeping in its municipal code. Under Texas Agriculture Code Chapter 131 (Apiary Inspection Act), beekeeping is regulated at the state level. The Texas Apiary Inspection Service requires registration of apiaries. Cities in Texas generally cannot prohibit beekeeping outright due to the Texas Right to Farm Act, but may impose reasonable regulations. Mesquite's zoning ordinance may restrict beekeeping in residential areas as a non-conforming use. Contact the Planning Department at 972-216-6216 for guidance.
Violations & Fines
Bee colonies creating a nuisance may be addressed under general nuisance provisions. State registration violations are handled by the Texas Apiary Inspection Service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep bees in Mesquite TX?
Do I need to register my beehives?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Mesquite
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