All State Regulations

    Beekeeping Laws & Regulations in Maryland

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

    Last updated: April 1, 2026

    Key Facts - Maryland Beekeeping

    Registration Required

    Yes - through MDA

    Residential Hive Limits

    No statewide residential limit.

    State Agency

    Maryland Department of Agriculture, Apiary Inspection Program

    State Registration Requirements

    Maryland law requires all beekeepers to register their hives annually with the Maryland Department of Agriculture's Apiary Inspection Program. Registration is free and must be renewed each year. The State Apiarist provides free inspections, disease diagnostics, and issues health certificates for interstate movement. Out-of-state beekeepers must obtain a permit and provide a certificate of inspection before bringing bees into Maryland. Maryland has a well-established apiary program and Beekeeper Bill of Rights protections.

    Registration Fees

    Registration is free for Maryland beekeepers.

    Register with MDA

    Residential Beekeeping Rules

    Hive Limits - Residential

    No statewide residential limit. Maryland's Beekeeper Protection Act limits overly restrictive local ordinances.

    Hive Limits - Rural / Agricultural

    No statewide limit on rural or agricultural properties.

    Setback Requirements

    No statewide setback requirement. Local ordinances may require setbacks with flyway barriers, typically 10 to 25 feet from property lines.

    City-Specific Regulations

    Baltimore

    Hive Limits

    Urban beekeeping is permitted in residential zones under Baltimore's urban agriculture policies.

    Setbacks

    Hives should be placed with flyway barriers and reasonable setbacks from property lines.

    Notes

    Baltimore supports urban beekeeping with active rooftop and backyard hives across the city. Register with MDA.

    Annapolis

    Hive Limits

    No explicit cap. Beekeeping permitted in residential areas.

    Setbacks

    Reasonable setbacks and flyway barriers near neighbors.

    Notes

    Annapolis, the state capital, supports beekeeping and follows MDA registration requirements.

    Frederick

    Hive Limits

    No specific cap. Beekeeping allowed as accessory use in residential zones.

    Setbacks

    Hives should be set back from property lines with flyway barriers near neighbors.

    Notes

    Frederick County is one of Maryland's most beekeeper-friendly areas with abundant rural forage.

    Key Laws & Statutes

    Maryland Apiary Inspection Law

    Md. Code Ann., Agric. Section 5-501 et seq.

    Requires registration of all apiaries, authorizes the State Apiarist to inspect and quarantine diseased colonies, and regulates importation of bees into Maryland.

    Maryland Beekeeper Protection Act

    HB 1450 (2019)

    Limits the ability of local governments, HOAs, and condominium associations to prohibit beekeeping on residential property, preserving the right to keep bees subject to reasonable management standards.

    Maryland Beekeeping Association

    Maryland State Beekeepers Association

    The Maryland State Beekeepers Association (MSBA) supports beekeepers statewide with education, advocacy, short courses, and coordination of local county clubs. MSBA is one of the most active state associations on the East Coast and partners closely with MDA.

    Visit Maryland State Beekeepers Association

    Climate & Regional Considerations

    Maryland spans USDA zones 5b in the western mountains to 8a on the lower Eastern Shore, creating diverse beekeeping conditions. Western Maryland colonies need 70-80 pounds of honey stores and full winter prep, while Eastern Shore colonies may get by with 50-60 pounds. Upper ventilation and mouse guards are important statewide. The nectar flow starts with maple in March, peaks with tulip poplar and black locust in May, and ends with goldenrod and aster in fall. Small hive beetle pressure is moderate to high on the Eastern Shore. Hurricanes and nor'easters can affect coastal hives - secure well.

    Tips for Maryland Beekeepers

    • Register annually with the Maryland Department of Agriculture - registration is free.
    • Maryland's Beekeeper Protection Act limits HOA and local bans - know your rights.
    • Treat varroa mites in August for best winter survival.
    • Ensure colonies have 50 to 70 pounds of honey stores by fall.
    • Join a local MSBA-affiliated club for mentorship and bee school.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Other State Regulations

    Beekeeping Cost Calculator

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

    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 Maryland expects before you start.

    Read the Guide

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