Beekeeping: Fort Worth vs Grapevine
How do beekeeping rules compare between Fort Worth, TX and Grapevine, TX?
Grapevine has fewer restrictions than Fort Worth.
Fort Worth, TX
Tarrant County
Fort Worth allows beekeeping on residential property under Chapter 6 of the Code. If hive entrances are perpendicular to and within 25 feet of a property line, the keeper must install a solid 6-foot-tall wall, fence, or hedge between the hives and the property line as a flyway barrier.
View full Fort Worth rules →Grapevine, TX
Tarrant County
Beekeeping is allowed in Grapevine residential zones subject to setbacks and hive density limits. No city permit is required. Texas Apiary Inspection Service regulates hive movement and commercial operations.
View full Grapevine rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fort Worth | Grapevine |
|---|---|---|
| Code Reference | Fort Worth Code Ch. 6 | - |
| Flyway Barrier Trigger | Hive within 25 ft of property line | - |
| Barrier Height | 6 ft solid wall, fence, or hedge | - |
| State Registration | Texas Apiary Inspection Service | TAIS at Texas A&M |
| Permit | - | Not required for hobby |
| Setback | - | 25 feet typical |
| Flyway Barrier | - | 6-foot fence required |
| Commercial Permit | - | 200 dollars for interstate |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Fort Worth FAQ
Is beekeeping allowed in Fort Worth?
Yes. Beekeeping is allowed on residential property in Fort Worth under Chapter 6. If hive entrances are within 25 ft of a property line, you must install a 6-ft solid wall, fence, or hedge as a flyway barrier.
Do I need to register my Fort Worth hives?
Hobby hives do not need a city permit, but Texas law requires registration with the Texas Apiary Inspection Service if you sell honey or move bees between locations.
Grapevine FAQ
Do I need a permit to keep bees in Grapevine?
No city permit is required for hobby beekeeping. TAIS registration is recommended and required for operations with more than 6 hives or interstate movement.
How many hives can I have?
Standard lots are generally limited to 2 hives. More are allowed on larger acreage. Check with Planning at (817) 410-3155 for specific property limits.
Who handles a bee swarm in my yard?
Local beekeeper clubs including Metro Beekeepers and Cross Timbers Beekeepers will come retrieve a swarm for free. Avoid exterminators which kill the colony unnecessarily.
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