All State Regulations

    Beekeeping Laws & Regulations in Maine

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

    Last updated: April 1, 2026

    Key Facts - Maine Beekeeping

    Registration Required

    Yes - through DACF

    Residential Hive Limits

    No statewide residential hive limit.

    State Agency

    Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation & Forestry, Division of Animal and Plant Health

    State Registration Requirements

    All beekeepers in Maine must register their hives annually with the State Apiarist in the DACF Division of Animal and Plant Health. Registration must be renewed each year by December 31 for the upcoming calendar year. The State Apiarist conducts inspections, provides disease diagnostics, and issues interstate health certificates. Out-of-state beekeepers bringing colonies into Maine must obtain a permit and provide a recent inspection certificate showing freedom from American foulbrood and other regulated pests.

    Registration Fees

    Registration fees are $2 per colony with a $10 minimum. Out-of-state permits are required for bees entering Maine.

    Register with DACF

    Residential Beekeeping Rules

    Hive Limits - Residential

    No statewide residential hive limit. Local ordinances govern hive numbers in most Maine municipalities.

    Hive Limits - Rural / Agricultural

    No statewide limit on rural or agricultural properties.

    Setback Requirements

    No statewide setback requirement. Municipal ordinances may set local setbacks, commonly 10 to 25 feet from property lines with flyway barriers near neighbors.

    City-Specific Regulations

    Portland

    Hive Limits

    Up to 2 hives allowed on lots under 10,000 square feet, with more permitted on larger lots under the urban agriculture ordinance.

    Setbacks

    Hives must be at least 10 feet from property lines, with a 6-foot flyway barrier if within 25 feet of a neighboring dwelling.

    Notes

    Portland's urban agriculture ordinance permits beekeeping in residential zones. A water source must be maintained on the property, and hives must be registered with the State Apiarist.

    Bangor

    Hive Limits

    No specific citywide cap. Beekeeping is permitted as an accessory use in residential districts.

    Setbacks

    Hives should be placed at least 10 feet from property lines and away from regular pedestrian areas.

    Notes

    Bangor follows general nuisance standards. Beekeepers are encouraged to notify neighbors and maintain gentle stock.

    Augusta

    Hive Limits

    Not specifically limited by city code. Hives are allowed in residential areas subject to nuisance rules.

    Setbacks

    Reasonable setbacks from property lines and flyway barriers recommended near neighbors.

    Notes

    Augusta defers largely to state registration requirements. Responsible management is expected to avoid nuisance complaints.

    Key Laws & Statutes

    Maine Bee Law

    7 M.R.S. Ch. 601, Sections 2701-2709

    Establishes the authority of the State Apiarist, mandates annual registration of all hives, and provides for inspection, quarantine, and destruction of diseased colonies.

    Pollinator Protection Act

    7 M.R.S. Ch. 601-A

    Directs DACF to protect pollinators through best management practices and coordination with pesticide regulation.

    Maine Beekeeping Association

    Maine State Beekeepers Association

    The Maine State Beekeepers Association (MSBA) supports hobbyist and commercial beekeepers across Maine through education, an annual conference, a journeyman certification program, and a network of local county chapters.

    Visit Maine State Beekeepers Association

    Climate & Regional Considerations

    Maine spans USDA hardiness zones 3b through 6a, making winter survival the biggest challenge for beekeepers. Colonies need 70 to 90 pounds of honey stores going into winter, and many beekeepers wrap hives or use insulated covers from November through April. Ensure top ventilation to prevent condensation, which kills more colonies than cold alone. The main nectar flow is short, running from late May through July with dandelion, apple, raspberry, clover, and basswood. Goldenrod and aster provide a fall flow critical for winter stores. Late cold snaps in May can starve colonies that have started brood rearing, so monitor spring stores carefully.

    Tips for Maine Beekeepers

    • Maine's short summers mean colonies must build up quickly - start with strong packages or nucs in late April or early May.
    • Varroa mite treatment timing is critical - treat in late summer before winter bees are raised to ensure healthy overwintering.
    • Wrap hives or use insulation boards for winter - Maine winters can drop below minus 20 F in the interior.
    • Register annually by December 31 with the State Apiarist, even for a single backyard hive.
    • Join a local county chapter of MSBA for mentorship - Maine has active clubs in most regions.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Other State Regulations

    Beekeeping Cost Calculator

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

    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 Maine expects before you start.

    Read the Guide

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