All State Regulations

    Beekeeping Laws & Regulations in Virginia

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

    Last updated: April 1, 2026

    Key Facts - Virginia Beekeeping

    Registration Required

    No - through VDACS

    Residential Hive Limits

    No statewide residential hive limit.

    State Agency

    Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Office of Plant Industry Services

    State Registration Requirements

    Virginia's apiary program at VDACS encourages voluntary registration of all apiaries. Registered beekeepers receive notifications about nearby pesticide applications, disease outbreaks, and state programs. Virginia also operates a Beehive Distribution Program that provides free hive equipment to Virginia residents while funds last, as well as a Beehive Grant Program that reimburses beekeepers for purchases of new hive equipment.

    Registration Fees

    Registration is voluntary and free. The Beehive Distribution Program provides free hive equipment to eligible Virginia residents.

    Register with VDACS

    Residential Beekeeping Rules

    Hive Limits - Residential

    No statewide residential hive limit. State law protects beekeeping as an agricultural activity.

    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

    Virginia Beach

    Hive Limits

    Permitted in residential zones. Virginia Beach's ordinance allows hives on single-family residential lots with setback requirements.

    Setbacks

    Hives must be at least 10 feet from property lines with flyway barriers recommended.

    Notes

    Coastal location requires hurricane preparedness. The Tidewater Beekeepers Association serves the area.

    Norfolk

    Hive Limits

    Allowed on residential properties under general nuisance rules.

    Setbacks

    Typical 10-foot setback from property lines with flyway barriers recommended in dense neighborhoods.

    Notes

    Urban beekeeping is supported. Flood-prone areas require elevated hive stands.

    Richmond

    Hive Limits

    Permitted in residential zones with reasonable hive numbers.

    Setbacks

    At least 10 feet from property lines with 6-foot flyway barriers recommended.

    Notes

    Richmond has an active urban beekeeping community. The Richmond Beekeepers Association offers mentorship and classes.

    Key Laws & Statutes

    Virginia Beekeeping Law

    Va. Code Ann. Title 3.2, Chapter 44

    Establishes VDACS's authority over apiary inspection and disease control, creates the Beehive Grant Program and Beehive Distribution Program, and provides liability protections for registered beekeepers who follow best management practices.

    Virginia Right to Farm Act

    Va. Code Ann. Section 3.2-301

    Protects agricultural operations including beekeeping from nuisance lawsuits when operated consistent with accepted agricultural and management practices.

    Virginia Beekeeping Association

    Virginia State Beekeepers Association

    The Virginia State Beekeepers Association supports beekeepers statewide through education, semi-annual meetings, the Virginia Master Beekeeper Program, and advocacy. VSBA partners with Virginia Tech and Virginia State University on research and extension.

    Visit Virginia State Beekeepers Association

    Climate & Regional Considerations

    Virginia spans USDA zones 5b in the western mountains through 8a in the Tidewater region. Beekeeping conditions vary widely - mountain beekeepers face cold winters requiring 60-70 pounds of stores, while Tidewater beekeepers deal with humidity, small hive beetles, and hurricanes. The spring tulip poplar flow in May is a highlight statewide. Summer dearth in July and August is common. Fall goldenrod and aster provide a strong finishing flow in many regions.

    Tips for Virginia Beekeepers

    • Apply for the Virginia Beehive Distribution Program - eligible residents can receive free hive equipment while funds last.
    • The Virginia Beehive Grant Program reimburses beekeepers for purchases of new hive equipment up to $200 per year.
    • Tulip poplar is a major spring nectar source across most of Virginia, typically flowing in May.
    • Coastal Virginia beekeepers should prepare for hurricanes and tropical storms.
    • Register with VDACS for pesticide notifications and access to state beekeeping programs.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Other State Regulations

    Beekeeping Cost Calculator

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

    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 Virginia expects before you start.

    Read the Guide

    Cookie Notice

    We use cookies to enhance your browsing experience, serve personalized ads or content, and analyze our traffic. By clicking "Accept All", you consent to our use of cookies. We use Google Analytics to analyze usage of our website.Read our Privacy Policyfor more information.