Universal City, TX Animal Ordinances: Beekeeping (2026)
Key Facts
- State Law
- TX Agriculture Code Chapter 131
- Registration
- TX Apiary Inspection Service
- Typical Setback
- 10-25 feet from property line
- Flyway Barrier
- Six-foot screen if close to line
- Aggressive Colonies
- Must be removed promptly
Summary
Backyard beekeeping in Universal City is allowed under Texas Agriculture Code Chapter 131 with registration, but local nuisance and setback rules still apply in residential zones.
Sec. 131.045. BEEKEEPER REGISTRATION. (a) Each beekeeper in this state may register on an annual basis with the chief apiary inspector. A registration under this section expires August 31 following the date the registration is issued. (b) A registration must include: (1) information required by the chief apiary inspector; and (2) the county or counties in which the beekeeper operates. Sec. 131.061. IDENTIFICATION REQUIRED. (a) Except as provided by Subsection (b), a person may not operate an apiary in this state unless the hives are: (1) clearly and permanently marked with the name of the person ...; (2) branded ... with a brand registered to the person by the chief apiary inspector; or (3) identified by a weatherproof sign posted within the apiary.
Full Breakdown
Texas Agriculture Code Chapter 131 (Bees and Honey) establishes statewide beekeeping registration through the Texas Apiary Inspection Service and prevents cities from outright banning beekeeping for agricultural purposes. Universal City does require that hives comply with nuisance and setback provisions in Chapter 6 and zoning rules: typically hives must be set back at least 10-25 feet from property lines and screened with a six-foot flyway barrier if closer. Hive density is commonly limited based on lot size. Aggressive or Africanized colonies must be removed promptly. Residents near Randolph AFB flight paths should note that honey bees are not affected by jet overflights but should avoid siting hives near high-traffic areas. Violations can trigger abatement and Class C fines up to 500 dollars.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my neighbor stop me from having hives?
Do I need a permit for two hives in my backyard?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Universal City
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Universal City to another location·View the Texas animal ordinances overview
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Beekeeping in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Bexar County handle beekeeping.