All State Regulations

    Beekeeping Laws & Regulations in Mississippi

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

    Last updated: April 1, 2026

    Key Facts - Mississippi Beekeeping

    Registration Required

    Yes - through MDAC

    Residential Hive Limits

    No statewide residential hive limit.

    State Agency

    Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce, Bureau of Plant Industry

    State Registration Requirements

    The Mississippi Bureau of Plant Industry administers the state's apiary program. All beekeepers are encouraged to register, and those selling bees or equipment must be permitted and inspected annually. Mississippi conducts honey bee health surveys and works with USDA to monitor for exotic pests such as Tropilaelaps and Apis cerana.

    Registration Fees

    Registration is free. Permits are required for beekeepers selling queens, package bees, or nucs, and require an annual inspection.

    Register with MDAC

    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

    Jackson

    Hive Limits

    Permitted on residential lots with reasonable numerical limits based on lot size.

    Setbacks

    At least 10 feet from property lines with a 6-foot flyway barrier if near neighboring dwellings.

    Notes

    Jackson treats beekeeping under general nuisance rules. Maintaining docile stock and a water source on the property helps avoid complaints.

    Gulfport

    Hive Limits

    Allowed on single-family residential properties. Hive count should be appropriate to lot size.

    Setbacks

    Hives should be at least 10 feet from property lines and positioned so flight paths do not cross neighboring yards at low height.

    Notes

    Coastal location requires hurricane preparedness. Strap hives to stands or ground anchors during storm season from June through November.

    Hattiesburg

    Hive Limits

    Permitted with no strict city cap. Must not create a nuisance.

    Setbacks

    Typical setback of 10 feet from property lines. A flyway barrier is recommended in residential neighborhoods.

    Notes

    The Pine Belt Beekeepers Association based in Hattiesburg offers strong local support and mentorship for new beekeepers.

    Key Laws & Statutes

    Mississippi Apiary Law

    Miss. Code Ann. Title 69, Chapter 25

    Authorizes the Bureau of Plant Industry to inspect apiaries, enforce disease control measures, and regulate the sale and movement of bees within and into Mississippi.

    Mississippi Beekeeping Association

    Mississippi Beekeepers Association

    The Mississippi Beekeepers Association is a statewide organization that supports hobby and commercial beekeepers through education, an annual conference, and legislative advocacy. MBA partners with Mississippi State University Extension on beekeeper training.

    Visit Mississippi Beekeepers Association

    Climate & Regional Considerations

    Mississippi's hot, humid climate in USDA zones 7b through 9a supports a long foraging season but creates high pest pressure from small hive beetles, wax moths, and varroa mites. Keep colonies strong, provide good ventilation, and use screened bottom boards. Summer dearth from mid-July through August is common and feeding may be necessary. Winters are mild enough that colonies rarely form tight clusters for long, so moisture control and ventilation remain important year-round.

    Tips for Mississippi Beekeepers

    • Small hive beetles are a significant pest in Mississippi. Use traps and keep colonies strong.
    • Monitor for varroa mites at least monthly during the active season and treat when thresholds are exceeded.
    • The spring nectar flow is dominated by tallow, privet, and clover - plan your honey harvest around May and June.
    • Coastal beekeepers should have a hurricane plan including hive straps and identification on each hive body.
    • Partner with Mississippi State University Extension for free or low-cost beekeeper education and pest diagnostics.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Other State Regulations

    Beekeeping Cost Calculator

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

    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 Mississippi expects before you start.

    Read the Guide

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