Skip to main content
CityRuleLookup
Key FactsOrdinance TextFull BreakdownViolationsFAQSourcesMore in Odessa

Odessa, TX Animal Ordinances: Beekeeping (2026)

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

Key Facts

Allowed
Yes, with proper management
State Law
Texas supports beekeeping
Water Source
Must be provided for bees
Nuisance
Must prevent swarming complaints

Summary

Beekeeping in Odessa is subject to city and state regulations. Texas law supports beekeeping and provides some protections, but cities can regulate hive placement and maintenance. Hives should be managed to prevent swarming and nuisance complaints.

Sec. 131.041. PERMIT FOR INTERSTATE MOVEMENT. (a) A person may not ship or cause to be shipped bees or equipment into or out of this state unless the person has a permit issued by the chief apiary inspector authorizing the shipment.(b) A permit issued under this section applies to all shipments made by the beekeeper and expires on August 31 following the date the permit is issued. The term of a permit may not exceed one year.(c) A person may apply for a permit under this section by filing an application with the inspector. A person may apply for a permit at any time, but a person must apply for a permit before the 10th day preceding the date of a shipment if the person does not hold a permit on the 10th day preceding the date of the

Source: Odessa Municipal CodeView official code

Full Breakdown

Texas has a Right to Farm law that provides some protections for agricultural activities including beekeeping. However, within Odessa city limits, hives must be maintained to prevent nuisance conditions. Hives should have adequate water sources to prevent bees from seeking water on neighboring properties. Aggressive bee colonies must be requeened or removed.

Violations & Fines

Bee colonies that become a nuisance may result in Code Enforcement action requiring hive relocation or removal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I keep bees in Odessa?
Yes, beekeeping is allowed but hives must be properly managed to prevent nuisance conditions. Provide a water source and manage colonies to prevent swarming.
How many hives can I have in Odessa?
Check with Code Enforcement for any local limits. Hives must be maintained to not create a nuisance for neighbors.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Odessa

Dog Leash LawsLight RestrictionsChickens & LivestockHeavy RestrictionsPet LimitsSome RestrictionsMandatory Spay/NeuterHeavy RestrictionsPet Store RulesSome RestrictionsBreed RestrictionsFew RestrictionsExotic PetsLight RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Amplified Music & Outdoor SoundSome RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Decibel LimitsSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Loading ZonesSome RestrictionsFence Regulations: Material RestrictionsSome RestrictionsFence Regulations: Retaining WallsSome RestrictionsLandscaping Rules: Artificial TurfSome Restrictions

All Odessa rules

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

Get notified when Beekeeping in Odessa, 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.