Virginia Statewide Rule
Virginia Beekeeping Registration and Right to Farm
Key Facts
- Chapter
- Va. Code Title 3.2, Ch. 44
- Right to Farm
- Va. Code 3.2-301
- State agency
- VDACS State Apiarist
- Statewide setbacks
- None
Summary
Virginia regulates beekeeping at the state level via Title 3.2 Chapter 44, including voluntary registration and Right-to-Farm protection on agricultural land.
A. Any person owning or operating an apiary that is not located on his own property shall post the name and address of the owner or operator in a conspicuous place in the apiary. B. A person who operates an apiary in a reasonable manner, in compliance with local zoning restrictions, and in conformance with the written best management practices as provided by regulation of the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services shall not be liable for any personal injury or property damage that occurs in connection with his keeping and maintaining of bees, bee equipment, queen breeding equipment, apiaries, or appliances.
Full Breakdown
Virginia Code Title 3.2, Chapter 44 governs beekeeping, including the State Apiarist program, inspections, and disease control. The Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services maintains a registration program for hive locations. Production beekeeping in agriculturally zoned areas is protected from special use permit requirements under the Right to Farm Act (Va. Code 3.2-301). Residential beekeeping in non-agricultural zones is left to local zoning, but localities cannot unreasonably restrict agricultural operations. There is no statewide hive setback or count limit for residential keepers.
Violations & Penalties
Penalties for violating apiary inspection or disease-control orders vary by section.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to register my beehives in Virginia?
Can my city ban backyard beehives?
Sources
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