Virginia Beach, VA Animal Ordinances: Beekeeping (2026)
Key Facts
- Permit/License
- Beekeeping permitted under VA Code §3.2-4400+ — localities cannot ban it
- Hours/Times
- VDACS apiary registration required within 30 days (free) per §3.2-4404
- Distances
- Best practices: 10-foot setbacks, flyway barriers, on-site water source
- Hours/Times
- VDACS State Apiarist inspects for diseases like American foulbrood
- HOA covenants
- HOA covenants may prohibit beekeeping independent of state law
Summary
Virginia Beach permits beekeeping in residential zones under Virginia state apiary law (VA Code §3.2-4400 through §3.2-4419). Beekeepers must register apiaries with the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) State Apiarist. The city generally follows state law without imposing hive number limits, though setbacks from property lines (typically 10-25 feet) and requirements for water sources and flyway barriers are common best practices. Managed honey bees are protected: localities cannot prohibit residential beekeeping under Virginia law. HOA restrictions may still apply.
"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. "Bee equipment" means hives and hive parts including frames, supers, covers, bottom boards, and beekeeping apparel. "Brood comb" means the assemblage of cells containing any living stage of bees at any time prior to their emergence as adults. "Certificate of health" means a state-of-origin document prepared and signed by the State
Full Breakdown
2-4419), which preempts most local restrictions on residential beekeeping. 2-4401, the General Assembly declared beekeeping to be a valuable agricultural activity benefiting pollination and agriculture. 2-4414 specifically limits local authority: localities may regulate beekeeping for public health and safety but cannot outright prohibit residential beekeeping. 2-4404. VDACS inspects hives for diseases including American foulbrood and provides diagnostic services. 25 acre, more on larger lots). Africanized honey bees are not established in Virginia, but aggressive European colonies should be requeened. Swarm reporting is encouraged, local beekeeper associations including Tidewater Beekeepers Association and Beekeepers Guild of Southeast Virginia collect swarms at no cost.
2-301 may apply in some cases. Agricultural districts (AG-1, AG-2) have no meaningful restrictions. Stinging incidents can create nuisance or liability concerns if colonies are improperly managed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to keep bees in Virginia Beach?
How many hives can I have on my property?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Virginia Beach
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