All State Regulations

    Beekeeping Laws & Regulations in West Virginia

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

    Last updated: April 1, 2026

    Key Facts - West Virginia Beekeeping

    Registration Required

    Yes - through WVDA

    Residential Hive Limits

    No statewide residential hive limit.

    State Agency

    West Virginia Department of Agriculture, Plant Industries Division

    State Registration Requirements

    West Virginia requires all beekeepers to register their apiaries annually with the WVDA Plant Industries Division. Registration is free and provides access to free hive inspections, certificates of health for interstate movement, and state disease monitoring programs. The West Virginia State Apiarist conducts inspections and investigates disease reports.

    Registration Fees

    Registration is free. Inspections are provided free of charge.

    Register with WVDA

    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

    Charleston

    Hive Limits

    Permitted in residential zones. Hive numbers should be appropriate for the lot size.

    Setbacks

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

    Notes

    Charleston (the state capital) supports urban beekeeping. The Kanawha Valley Beekeepers Association is active in the area.

    Huntington

    Hive Limits

    Allowed on residential properties under general nuisance rules.

    Setbacks

    Typical 10-foot setback with flyway barriers recommended in residential neighborhoods.

    Notes

    The Tri-State Beekeepers Association serves the Huntington area including parts of Ohio and Kentucky.

    Morgantown

    Hive Limits

    Permitted in residential zones with reasonable numerical limits.

    Setbacks

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

    Notes

    West Virginia University Extension based in Morgantown provides beekeeper education and resources.

    Key Laws & Statutes

    West Virginia Apiary Law

    W. Va. Code Chapter 19, Article 13

    Requires apiary registration, grants the State Apiarist inspection and quarantine authority, and regulates the sale and movement of honey bees and used equipment within and into West Virginia.

    West Virginia Beekeeping Association

    West Virginia Beekeepers Association

    The West Virginia Beekeepers Association supports beekeepers statewide through education, an annual fall conference, and legislative advocacy. WVBA maintains a network of local clubs throughout the state and partners with WVU Extension on training.

    Visit West Virginia Beekeepers Association

    Climate & Regional Considerations

    West Virginia sits in USDA zones 5b through 7a with cold, snowy winters in the mountains and milder conditions in the river valleys. Winter preparation is important - ensure 60-70 pounds of honey stores, upper ventilation to manage moisture, and windbreaks in exposed locations. The Appalachian sourwood flow in June and July is prized by many beekeepers. Summer humidity supports small hive beetles, though pressure is lower than in the Deep South. Spring comes late in the high mountains, so colony buildup may be slower than in neighboring states.

    Tips for West Virginia Beekeepers

    • Register annually with WVDA - it is free and required by state law.
    • West Virginia's mountainous terrain creates diverse microclimates - talk to local beekeepers about your specific area.
    • Sourwood and tulip poplar are major honey sources in Appalachian West Virginia.
    • Prepare for cold mountain winters with 60-70 pounds of honey stores and good windbreaks.
    • Join a local club - West Virginia has active regional associations offering mentorship and shared equipment.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Other State Regulations

    Beekeeping Cost Calculator

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