West Palm Beach, FL Animal Ordinances: Beekeeping (2026)
Key Facts
- State Law
- FL §586.10 preemption
- Registration
- FDACS annual ($10 hobbyist)
- Local Ban
- Prohibited by state
- BMPs
- Flyway barriers required
- HOAs
- May still restrict
Summary
Beekeeping is allowed in West Palm Beach under FL §586.10 state preemption. Cities cannot ban beekeeping. Annual registration with Florida Department of Agriculture (FDACS) is mandatory for all colonies.
Apiary” means a beeyard or site where honeybee hives, honeybees, or honeybee equipment is located. (2) “Apiculture” means the raising, caring for, and breeding of honeybees. (3) “Beekeeping equipment” means honeybee hives, frames, supers, pallets, queen excluders, and other equipment which is used in the cultivation of honeybees and the harvesting of products produced by honeybees. (4) “Certified honey” means honey that is sampled, analyzed, and certified by the department to be primarily of one type from a principal nectar source. (5) “Colony” means a distinguishable localized population of honeybees in which one or more life stages may be present.
Full Breakdown
FL §586.10, amended in 2012 and reinforced by 2021 SB 1186, preempts local beekeeping bans. WPB beekeepers must register colonies annually with the FDACS Apiary Inspection Section ($10 for hobbyists with up to 5 colonies). Best Management Practices require flyway barriers near property lines and a fresh water source. HOAs may still restrict hives in deed-restricted communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep bees in my backyard in West Palm Beach?
What are the beekeeping regulations in West Palm Beach?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in West Palm Beach
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Beekeeping in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Palm Beach County handle beekeeping.