All State Regulations

    Beekeeping Laws & Regulations in New Hampshire

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

    Last updated: April 1, 2026

    Key Facts - New Hampshire Beekeeping

    Registration Required

    Yes - through NHDAMF

    Residential Hive Limits

    No statewide residential limit.

    State Agency

    New Hampshire Department of Agriculture, Markets & Food, Division of Plant Industry

    State Registration Requirements

    New Hampshire law requires all beekeepers to register their hives annually with the Division of Plant Industry. Registration is free and allows the State Apiarist to track colony locations for disease monitoring, pesticide notifications, and inspections. Out-of-state beekeepers moving colonies into New Hampshire must provide a certificate of inspection from their state of origin. The state inspector provides free apiary inspections on request and issues health certificates for interstate movement.

    Registration Fees

    Registration is free for New Hampshire beekeepers.

    Register with NHDAMF

    Residential Beekeeping Rules

    Hive Limits - Residential

    No statewide residential limit. Local zoning ordinances may set limits, though most NH towns have no specific bee ordinances.

    Hive Limits - Rural / Agricultural

    No statewide limit on rural properties.

    Setback Requirements

    No statewide setback requirement. Local ordinances may impose setbacks or flyway barrier rules, typically 10 feet from property lines.

    City-Specific Regulations

    Manchester

    Hive Limits

    No specific citywide hive limit. Beekeeping is allowed as an accessory use in residential zones.

    Setbacks

    Hives should be placed at least 10 feet from property lines with a flyway barrier if near neighbors.

    Notes

    Manchester defers to state registration and general nuisance standards. Beekeepers should maintain a water source and avoid placing hives near sidewalks.

    Nashua

    Hive Limits

    No explicit cap. Hives allowed in residential areas under general zoning.

    Setbacks

    Reasonable setback from property lines recommended, with flyway barriers near neighboring dwellings.

    Notes

    Nashua has an active urban beekeeping community. Register with the state and notify neighbors as a best practice.

    Concord

    Hive Limits

    Not capped by city ordinance. Beekeeping is permitted in residential zones.

    Setbacks

    Hives should be set back from property lines and shielded with barriers where appropriate.

    Notes

    Concord is generally beekeeper-friendly. Hives must be registered with the state, and beekeepers are expected to follow responsible practices.

    Key Laws & Statutes

    New Hampshire Apiary Law

    NH RSA 429

    Establishes the State Apiarist position, requires annual registration of all apiaries, and authorizes inspection, quarantine, and treatment of diseased colonies.

    NH Pesticide Control

    NH RSA 430

    Provides protections for registered apiaries by requiring pesticide applicators to avoid applying toxic chemicals to blooming crops without beekeeper notification when possible.

    New Hampshire Beekeeping Association

    New Hampshire Beekeepers Association

    The New Hampshire Beekeepers Association (NHBA) supports beekeepers across the state with education, mentorship, a bee school, an annual conference, and advocacy. The association works closely with the State Apiarist and has several affiliated county clubs.

    Visit New Hampshire Beekeepers Association

    Climate & Regional Considerations

    New Hampshire sits in USDA zones 3b through 6a, with harsh winters that demand serious preparation. Colonies should be heavy with stores (60-80 pounds) by the end of September. Wrap hives with tar paper or insulated covers, ensure upper ventilation, and use entrance reducers to keep mice out. The main nectar flow runs from late May through July, with dandelion, apple, black locust, clover, and basswood as major sources. A fall flow from goldenrod and aster helps colonies replenish stores. Mud season in March and April can be challenging - avoid heavy disturbance until colonies are actively flying.

    Tips for New Hampshire Beekeepers

    • Register your hives annually with the NH Division of Plant Industry - it is free and supports pesticide notification programs.
    • New Hampshire winters are long - ensure colonies have 60 to 80 pounds of honey stores by October.
    • Treat for varroa mites in August before winter bees are reared to give colonies the best chance of survival.
    • Attend the NHBA bee school for new beekeepers, held each winter.
    • Use moisture boards or upper entrances to manage condensation during long winters.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Other State Regulations

    Beekeeping Cost Calculator

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

    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 New Hampshire expects before you start.

    Read the Guide

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