Richmond, VA Animal Ordinances: Beekeeping (2026)
Key Facts
- Setback
- 10 ft from property line
- Flyway Barrier
- 6 ft within 25 ft of line
- Hive Limit
- 2 per quarter acre
- Registration
- VDACS annual
- State Law
- VA Code 3.2-4400
Summary
Beekeeping is allowed in Richmond residential zones with hives set back at least 10 feet from property lines. State Apiarist registration (VA Code 3.2-4400) is required annually.
"Apiary" means any place where one or more colonies of bees are kept. "Appliance" means any apparatus, tool, machine, or other device used in the handling and manipulating of bees, honey, wax, hives, and hive parts and shall include containers used in transporting, processing, storing, or merchandising bees and bee products. "Bee" means the honeybee, Apis mellifera and genetic variations thereof, at any living stage; and may include other hymenopterous insects that depend on pollen and nectar for food. "Bee diseases" means departures from a sound state of health of bees characterized by visible symptoms including American foulbrood and any other diseases, insects, mites, or bee pests.
Full Breakdown
Richmond permits beekeeping in all residential districts subject to zoning performance standards: a minimum 10-foot setback from side and rear property lines, a 6-foot flyway barrier (fence or dense hedge) if hives are within 25 feet of a lot line, and a limit of 2 hives per quarter acre of lot area. Hives must be registered annually with the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) State Apiarist. The Richmond Beekeepers Association provides mentorship. Water sources must be provided on the beekeeper lot to reduce neighbor nuisance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to keep bees in Richmond?
How many hives can I keep?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Richmond
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