All State Regulations

    Beekeeping Laws & Regulations in Arkansas

    Everything you need to know about legally keeping bees in Arkansas - from state registration to city-specific ordinances.

    Last updated: April 1, 2026

    Key Facts - Arkansas Beekeeping

    Registration Required

    Yes - through ASPB

    Residential Hive Limits

    No statewide residential hive limit.

    State Agency

    Arkansas State Plant Board (Arkansas Department of Agriculture)

    State Registration Requirements

    The Arkansas State Plant Board's Apiary Section requires beekeepers to register their colonies and permits those selling bees or used equipment. The program conducts inspections for American foulbrood and other regulated pests. Bees and used equipment entering Arkansas must be accompanied by a certificate of inspection from the state of origin.

    Registration Fees

    Registration is free. Inspection fees apply for commercial beekeepers selling queens, packages, or nucs.

    Register with ASPB

    Residential Beekeeping Rules

    Hive Limits - Residential

    No statewide residential hive limit. Local ordinances may apply.

    Hive Limits - Rural / Agricultural

    No statewide limit on rural properties.

    Setback Requirements

    No statewide setback requirement. Local ordinances typically require 10 to 25 feet from property lines.

    City-Specific Regulations

    Little Rock

    Hive Limits

    Permitted in residential zones. Hive numbers should be reasonable for the lot size.

    Setbacks

    At least 10 feet from property lines with a 6-foot flyway barrier if within 25 feet of a lot line.

    Notes

    Little Rock supports urban beekeeping and the Central Arkansas Beekeepers Association is active in the area.

    Fort Smith

    Hive Limits

    Allowed on residential properties under general nuisance rules.

    Setbacks

    Typical 10-foot setback with flyway barriers recommended in residential neighborhoods.

    Notes

    The Western Arkansas Beekeepers Association serves the Fort Smith area.

    Fayetteville

    Hive Limits

    Permitted in residential zones. Hives must not create a nuisance.

    Setbacks

    At least 10 feet from property lines with a flyway barrier recommended.

    Notes

    Fayetteville is home to the Northwest Arkansas Beekeepers Association and benefits from University of Arkansas Extension resources.

    Key Laws & Statutes

    Arkansas Apiary Act

    Ark. Code Ann. Title 2, Chapter 22

    Grants the Arkansas State Plant Board authority to inspect apiaries, control diseases, and regulate the sale and movement of bees and used equipment within and into Arkansas.

    Arkansas Beekeeping Association

    Arkansas Beekeepers Association

    The Arkansas Beekeepers Association provides statewide education, hosts an annual conference, and advocates for beekeeper-friendly policies. ABA supports a network of local clubs across the state.

    Visit Arkansas Beekeepers Association

    Climate & Regional Considerations

    Arkansas spans USDA hardiness zones 6b through 8a with hot, humid summers and variable winters. The Ozarks in the north experience colder winters requiring stronger winter preparation, while the Delta region in the east has milder winters but higher pest pressure. Small hive beetles are a statewide concern. Spring flooding in the Delta can threaten low-lying apiaries, so elevated stands are recommended. Summer dearth in July and August is common across most of the state.

    Tips for Arkansas Beekeepers

    • Monitor varroa mites monthly and treat when levels exceed 3 mites per 100 bees.
    • The Ozark region offers excellent forage with sourwood, basswood, and wildflowers.
    • Small hive beetles are present statewide - use traps and maintain strong colonies.
    • Spring swarm season in Arkansas typically runs from April through early June.
    • Register with the Arkansas State Plant Board for pesticide notification and disease monitoring.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Other State Regulations

    Beekeeping Cost Calculator

    Estimate startup costs, ongoing expenses, and potential honey revenue for your beekeeping operation in Arkansas.

    Calculate Costs

    Do You Need a License to Keep Bees?

    Most states require hive registration, not a license. Our guide explains the difference and what Arkansas expects before you start.

    Read the Guide

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