Texas Statewide Rule
Texas Beekeeper Registration Is Voluntary Under Ag Code 131
Key Facts
- Statute
- Tex. Agric. Code § 131.045
- Registration
- Voluntary, annual
- Agency
- Texas Apiary Inspection Service
- Fee
- $35
- Expires
- August 31
Summary
Texas keeps beekeeping light-touch: registration with the Texas Apiary Inspection Service is voluntary, not required to own hives. Beekeepers may register annually with the chief apiary inspector, and that registration expires each August 31.
(a) Each beekeeper in this state may register on an annual basis with the chief apiary inspector. A registration under this section expires August 31 following the date the registration is issued. (b) A registration must include: (1) information required by the chief apiary inspector; and (2) the county or counties in which the beekeeper operates.
Full Breakdown
Under Texas Agriculture Code Section 131.045, each beekeeper in the state may register annually with the chief apiary inspector, who runs the Texas Apiary Inspection Service (TAIS) at Texas A&M. Registration is optional for keeping hives, costs $35, and expires August 31. A registration must list the county or counties where the beekeeper operates, and the inspector may require a map of each apiary's exact location, which is protected as a trade secret. TAIS requires a current registration to legally perform bee removal work, and the chief apiary inspector may bar diseased bees from entering Texas.
Violations & Penalties
Texas sets no fine for keeping unregistered hives, since registration is voluntary. But TAIS requires a current registration to legally perform bee removal, and the chief apiary inspector may prohibit entry of diseased bees, combs, or pollen into the state.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to register my beehives in Texas?
When is registration actually required?
Is my apiary location public?
Sources
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