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.
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.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
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See how Richmond's beekeeping rules stack up against other locations.
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