Beekeeping: Denton vs Lewisville
How do beekeeping rules compare between Denton, TX and Lewisville, TX?
Denton and Lewisville have similar restriction levels.
Denton, TX
Denton County
Denton Code Chapter 6 Article IV regulates residential beekeeping. Texas Agriculture Code Chapter 131 requires all beekeepers to register apiaries annually with the Texas Apiary Inspection Service. Hives must be in movable-frame equipment for state inspection access. HOAs cannot ban beekeeping on lots of 1/4 acre or larger under TX Property Code 202.007.
View full Denton rules →Lewisville, TX
Denton County
Lewisville does not specifically ban beekeeping in residential areas but regulates it under nuisance provisions in Ch. 6 and Ch. 9. Texas Agriculture Code Ch. 131 recognizes beekeeping as an agricultural activity and preempts outright municipal bans on managed colonies.
View full Lewisville rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Denton | Lewisville |
|---|---|---|
| City Code | Ch. 6, Art. IV | - |
| State Registration | Required annually with TAIS (free) | - |
| State Law | TX Agriculture Code Ch. 131 | TX Agriculture Code Ch. 131 |
| HOA Protection | TX Property Code 202.007(d) -- lots 1/4 acre+ | - |
| Hive Type | Movable-frame required for inspection | - |
| Preemption | - | Cities cannot ban managed colonies |
| Registration | - | TAIS apiary registration recommended |
| Nuisance Code | - | Lewisville Ch. 9 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Denton FAQ
Can my HOA ban beekeeping in Denton?
Not if your lot is one-quarter acre or larger. Texas Property Code 202.007(d), effective September 2023, prohibits HOAs from restricting beekeeping on qualifying lots as long as you comply with city regulations and hive number limits.
Do I need to register my hives with the state?
Yes. Texas Agriculture Code Chapter 131 requires all beekeepers to register annually with the Texas Apiary Inspection Service. Registration is free and is done through Texas A&M AgriLife Extension.
Lewisville FAQ
Can Lewisville ban backyard beekeeping?
No. Texas Agriculture Code Ch. 131 preempts outright municipal bans on managed honeybee colonies. However, the city can enforce reasonable nuisance standards if bees create a hazard.
Do I need to register my hives?
The Texas Apiary Inspection Service recommends voluntary registration so hives can be inspected for disease. Check with TAIS for current registration procedures.
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