Indiana Statewide Rule
Indiana Beekeeping: Bee Import Permits and Apiary Inspection Law
Key Facts
- Import permit
- Required for out-of-state bees (IC 14-24-8-4)
- Enforcing agency
- DNR Div. of Entomology & Plant Pathology
- Inspection window
- 30 days; 60 for queens
- Statewide registration
- Not required
- Max civil penalty
- $500 per day (IC 14-24-8-3)
Summary
Indiana does not require statewide apiary registration, but IC 14-24-8-4 bars bringing bees or beekeeping equipment in from another state or country without a permit from the Division of Entomology and Plant Pathology, which may inspect any apiary.
Sec. 4. (a) A beekeeper may not ship or bring elements of beekeeping into Indiana from another state or country unless the elements of beekeeping are accompanied by a permit issued by the division under this section.
Full Breakdown
Under IC 14-24-8-4, a beekeeper may not ship or bring elements of beekeeping into Indiana from another state or country unless the shipment carries a permit issued by the DNR Division of Entomology and Plant Pathology. Applications need a certificate showing the origin apiary was inspected within 30 days (60 for queens and combless bees) during active brood rearing and found free of pests. The Division may examine any apiary in Indiana (IC 14-24-8-1) and order treatment or destruction of infected hives. Indiana sets no statewide hive limits, setbacks, or registration.
Violations & Penalties
A knowing violation of the article is a Class C infraction (up to $500). Recklessly disturbing or molesting someone's hive without permission is a Class B misdemeanor under IC 14-24-11-4; each day is a separate offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to register my hives with the state of Indiana?
Can I bring bees or used equipment from another state?
Is it illegal to damage someone else's beehive?
Sources
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