Kentucky Beekeeping Law: Statewide Animal Ordinances Rules (2026)

Key Facts

Governing Chapter: KRS Chapter 252
Lead Agency: KY Department of Agriculture
Registration: Required statewide
Inspection Authority: State Apiarist
Disease Focus: American foulbrood

Full Breakdown

KRS 252.190 through 252.260 establishes the State Apiarist within the Department of Agriculture and requires beekeepers to register hives. Inspectors can examine colonies for American foulbrood and other communicable diseases, and may order destruction of diseased hives. The state regulates importation of bees and used equipment to prevent disease spread. While the state preempts disease and apiary health regulation, local zoning ordinances may still restrict where hives can be placed within municipal limits, including setback and density rules.

Violations & Penalties

Failure to register hives or interfering with state inspections may result in civil penalties and quarantine orders. Selling diseased bees is prohibited.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to register my beehives in Kentucky?

Yes. KRS 252 requires beekeepers to register colonies with the Department of Agriculture so the State Apiarist can conduct disease inspections.

Can my city ban beekeeping entirely?

Cities can regulate hive placement through zoning, including setbacks and density limits, but state apiary disease law applies uniformly statewide.

Can I bring bees from another state?

Importation of bees and used equipment is regulated by the State Apiarist and may require inspection certificates to prevent disease introduction.

Kentucky State Apiary Law for Beekeepers