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Connecticut Statewide Rule

Connecticut Beekeeping: Register Every Hive by October 1

Light RestrictionsApplies statewide across Connecticut (2026)

Key Facts

Governing statute
Conn. Gen. Stat. § 22-89
Registration deadline
Annually by October 1
Registration fee
Free certificate
Enforcing agency
State Entomologist, CAES
Non-registration fine
Up to $25
Last verified: July 31, 2026

Summary

Connecticut law requires anyone owning one or more bee hives to register with the State Entomologist upon acquiring bees and again every year by October 1. Registration is free; skipping it draws a fine.

Each person owning one or more hives of bees shall upon acquisition of such bees and annually thereafter, on or before the first day of October, make application to the State Entomologist for the registration of bees... Any owner of bees who fails to register as required by the provisions of this section shall be fined not more than twenty-five dollars.

Full Breakdown

Under Conn. Gen. Stat. § 22-89, every person who owns one or more hives must apply to the State Entomologist at the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station for registration when they get bees and annually thereafter, on or before October 1. The Station issues a certificate at no charge and keeps public records of each registrant's name, residence, and where the bees are kept. Section 22-90 lets the Entomologist inspect apiaries, quarantine diseased colonies, and appoint inspectors with reasonable-time access.

Violations & Penalties

Failure to register is fined up to $25 under § 22-89. Inspection and disease-control violations under § 22-90 escalate: up to $100 first offense, $300 second, $500 third and subsequent.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to register a single backyard hive in Connecticut?
Yes. Section 22-89 applies to any person owning one or more hives. You must register upon acquiring bees and again every year by October 1.
What does bee registration cost?
Nothing. The State Entomologist issues the certificate of registration without a fee.
What happens if I do not register my hives?
You may be fined up to $25 under § 22-89. Separate inspection violations under § 22-90 carry fines up to $500 for repeat offenses.

Sources

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