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Wichita Falls, TX Animal Ordinances: Beekeeping (2026)

Light Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified April 2026

Key Facts

Status
Permitted with management practices
Flyway Barrier
6+ feet recommended near property lines
Water Source
Should be provided on property
Swarming
Must be managed to prevent

Summary

Wichita Falls allows beekeeping on residential properties with conditions. Hive placement, water sources, and flyway barriers help ensure bees do not become a nuisance to neighbors.

Sec. 131.001. DEFINITIONS. In this chapter:(1) "Abandoned apiary, equipment, or bees" means an apiary, equipment, or a colony of bees that is not regularly maintained or attended in accordance with this chapter or rules or quarantines adopted under this chapter.(2) "Apiary" means a place where colonies of bees or nuclei of bees are kept.(3) "Beekeeper" means a person who owns, leases, possesses, controls, or manages one or more colonies of bees for any personal or commercial purpose.(4) "Bee" means any stage of the common honeybee, Apis mellifera species.(5) "Colony" means a distinguishable localized population of bees in which one or more life stages may be present.(6) "Director" means the director of Texas A&M AgriLife Research.(7

Source: City of Wichita Falls Code of OrdinancesView official code

Full Breakdown

Beekeeping is permitted in Wichita Falls with reasonable management practices. Hives should be placed away from property lines and public areas. A water source should be provided on the property. Flyway barriers (fences or hedges) at least 6 feet high near property lines help direct bee flight upward. Beekeepers should manage colonies to minimize swarming. Notification of immediate neighbors is good practice.

Violations & Fines

Bee colonies that create a nuisance may be ordered removed. Complaints are handled through code enforcement or animal services.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I keep bees in Wichita Falls?
Yes. Beekeeping is permitted with proper management including hive placement, water sources, and flyway barriers near property lines.
How many hives can I have in Wichita Falls?
Check current city regulations for specific limits. Good management practices and neighbor consideration are key regardless of hive count.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Wichita Falls

Dog Leash LawsLight RestrictionsChickens & LivestockSome RestrictionsMandatory Spay/NeuterSignificant RestrictionsPet LimitsSignificant RestrictionsPet Store RulesSignificant RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Amplified Music & Outdoor SoundSome RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Decibel LimitsSome RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Vehicle NoiseSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Loading ZonesLight RestrictionsParking Rules: Abandoned VehiclesSome RestrictionsFence Regulations: Retaining WallsSome Restrictions

All Wichita Falls rules

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