Florida Statute 586.10 preempts local beekeeping regulation. Seminole cannot prohibit or restrict registered beekeeping operations meeting state best management practices and FDACS apiary registration requirements.
Under Florida Statute 586.10, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) has exclusive authority to regulate honeybee colonies. All beekeepers must register apiaries with FDACS and follow established Best Management Requirements covering hive placement, water sources, gentle stock requirements, and flyway barriers. Seminole and Pinellas County cannot prohibit beekeeping in residential zones if practices meet state standards. The state preemption applies even in densely populated suburban contexts. Hives must be kept clean and managed to prevent swarming or aggressive behavior.
Failure to register with FDACS or comply with BMPs can result in state-issued fines, hive removal orders, or apiary inspection requirements.
See how other cities in Pinellas County handle beekeeping.
See how Seminole's beekeeping rules stack up against other locations.
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