Pasco County, FL Animal Ordinances: Beekeeping (2026)
Key Facts
- State Law
- FL §586 (preempts local bans)
- Registration
- Required with FDACS
- Small Lots
- 3 colonies on 1/4 acre or less
- Grazing Animals
- AR/ER zoning, 1+ acre
Summary
Beekeeping is permitted in unincorporated Pasco County under Florida state preemption (FL §586). Beekeepers must register with FDACS and follow Best Management Practices. Up to 3 colonies on lots of one-quarter acre or less. Grazing animals require AR or ER zoning and minimum one acre.
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
Pasco County may regulate residential beekeeping through zoning and nuisance ordinances. Where allowed, hive counts are typically limited. Hives must meet setback requirements. Flyway barriers may be required. Water source must be provided. FL Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) registers beekeepers and inspects apiaries. Africanized honey bees are present in South Florida. Agricultural exemptions may be available for qualifying beekeeping operations. Florida’s subtropical climate supports year-round beekeeping.
Violations & Fines
Unauthorized hives: removal order. Nuisance complaints: fines. Africanized bee swarms: emergency removal by FDACS.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep bees in my backyard in Pasco County?
What are the beekeeping regulations in Pasco County?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Pasco County
Florida rules heatmap·Compare Pasco County to another location·View the Florida animal ordinances overview
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