Beekeeping in Miami Beach is governed by Florida Statute 586, which preempts local governments from prohibiting beekeeping on residential property. Beekeepers must register with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) and follow Best Management Requirements for maintaining European honey bee colonies. HOA or deed-restricted communities may impose their own restrictions.
Florida Statute 586 establishes the state's right to preempt local ordinances that prohibit beekeeping, meaning Miami Beach cannot ban beekeeping outright on residential property. However, beekeepers must comply with FDACS requirements including registration, annual inspections, and adherence to Best Management Requirements (BMR) for Maintaining European Honey Bee Colonies under the Beekeeper Compliance Agreement (FDACS-08492). Colonies on non-agricultural property require written permission from FDACS. BMR standards address colony density, water sources for bees, hive placement relative to property lines and public areas, and management practices to minimize stinging incidents. Africanized honey bees must be reported to FDACS immediately. Given Miami Beach's dense residential character and proximity to tourist areas, beekeepers should pay particular attention to hive orientation (facing away from neighboring properties and sidewalks) and providing adequate water sources to prevent bees from congregating at swimming pools or outdoor dining areas. HOAs and deed-restricted communities in Miami Beach may still restrict beekeeping within their governing documents.
FDACS enforces beekeeping compliance through inspections. Unregistered colonies or non-compliant management practices may result in colony removal orders. Report bee-related concerns to FDACS at 1-888-397-1517.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Miami-Dade County.
See how other cities in Miami-Dade County handle beekeeping.
See how Miami Beach's beekeeping rules stack up against other locations.
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