Alaska Beekeeping Law: Statewide Animal Ordinances Rules (2026)

Key Facts

Statute: AS 03.47
Health certificate: Required for imports
Used equipment: Generally prohibited
Registration: 11 AAC 35.010
Agency: Division of Agriculture

Full Breakdown

Alaska Statutes Title 3, Chapter 47 governs bees and beekeeping equipment statewide. Under AS 03.47.020, all bees imported into Alaska must be accompanied by a health certificate signed by a qualified apiary inspector confirming the source apiary appears free of bee diseases. AS 03.47.010 prohibits importation of used beekeeping equipment except certified hive boxes used to transport queens or queen cells. The Division of Agriculture handles registration and inspections under 11 AAC 35. Because importation and disease control are state-controlled, municipalities cannot authorize untested bee shipments or used equipment that state law forbids.

Violations & Penalties

Penalties under AS 03.47.035 include fines, quarantine orders, and destruction of non-compliant bees or equipment carrying disease.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit to bring honey bees into Alaska?

Yes. Imported bees must arrive with a health certificate signed by a qualified apiary inspector showing the source apiary appears free of bee diseases under AS 03.47.020.

Can I buy used hives from outside Alaska to save money?

No. AS 03.47.010 prohibits importing used beekeeping equipment, with a narrow exception for certified hive boxes carrying queen bees or queen cells.

Alaska Beekeeping Import and Inspection Requirements