All State Regulations

    Beekeeping Laws & Regulations in Wyoming

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

    Last updated: April 1, 2026

    Key Facts - Wyoming Beekeeping

    Registration Required

    No - through WDA

    Residential Hive Limits

    No statewide residential hive limit.

    State Agency

    Wyoming Department of Agriculture

    State Registration Requirements

    Wyoming has a relatively light regulatory touch on beekeeping. Hobbyist beekeepers are generally not required to register apiaries with the state, but anyone bringing bees into Wyoming from another state must obtain an entry permit and provide a certificate of inspection from the state of origin. The Wyoming Department of Agriculture provides guidance and can assist with disease concerns.

    Registration Fees

    Wyoming does not require routine registration of hobbyist apiaries. Beekeepers moving bees into Wyoming need an entry permit and health certificate.

    Register with WDA

    Residential Beekeeping Rules

    Hive Limits - Residential

    No statewide residential hive limit. Local ordinances are generally permissive.

    Hive Limits - Rural / Agricultural

    No statewide limit on rural or agricultural land.

    Setback Requirements

    No statewide setback. Local ordinances typically require 5 to 25 feet from property lines.

    City-Specific Regulations

    Cheyenne

    Hive Limits

    Up to 2 hives on residential lots, with additional hives allowed on larger parcels subject to setbacks.

    Setbacks

    Hives must be at least 10 feet from property lines, placed in rear yards, and screened by a 6-foot fence or flyway barrier if close to neighbors.

    Notes

    Cheyenne is generally supportive of backyard beekeeping. The high-elevation climate and strong winds make siting important - choose a sheltered location.

    Casper

    Hive Limits

    Generally 2 hives per residential lot, with larger operations allowed on larger parcels.

    Setbacks

    Hives must be at least 10 feet from property lines and screened by a fence or vegetation when close to neighbors.

    Notes

    Casper code is permissive, and rural parcels nearby allow unlimited hives. Wind protection is critical year-round.

    Laramie

    Hive Limits

    Generally 2 hives per residential lot, with additional hives allowed on larger parcels.

    Setbacks

    Hives must be at least 10 feet from property lines and behind a flyway barrier if close to neighbors.

    Notes

    Laramie sits at over 7,000 feet elevation, making it one of the highest and coldest beekeeping locations in the U.S. Beekeepers must plan for severe winters and a very short nectar season.

    Key Laws & Statutes

    Wyoming Bee Statutes

    Wyo. Stat. Title 11, Chapter 7

    Provides the Wyoming Department of Agriculture with authority over apiary inspections, entry permits, and disease management. Wyoming's statutes are relatively light compared to neighboring states, reflecting the state's limited commercial beekeeping industry.

    Wyoming Beekeeping Association

    Wyoming Beekeepers Association

    The Wyoming Beekeepers Association supports beekeepers across one of the highest, coldest, and windiest states in the U.S. The association hosts meetings, shares wintering strategies suited to Wyoming's extreme climate, and advocates for the state's small but dedicated beekeeping community.

    Visit Wyoming Beekeepers Association

    Climate & Regional Considerations

    Wyoming is one of the most extreme beekeeping climates in the U.S. Most of the state sits above 5,000 feet, with Laramie over 7,000 feet. Winters are long, cold, dry, and windy, with temperatures regularly well below zero. Summers are short and can be surprisingly productive where alfalfa, clover, and wildflowers bloom along river valleys. Successful overwintering requires 80-100 pounds of stores, strong populations of healthy winter bees, wind protection, and good insulation. Wind is often the biggest single factor - a solid wind break is essential. Varroa treatment must be completed early, and new packages should be installed as early in spring as weather allows to give colonies maximum buildup time.

    Tips for Wyoming Beekeepers

    • Wyoming winters are long and windy. Site hives in sheltered locations out of prevailing winds and plan for 80-100 pounds of stores.
    • High elevation and short seasons mean your nectar flow window is narrow - typically late June through early August. Be ready with supers.
    • Complete varroa treatment by late August - Wyoming's short fall gives no second chances for unhealthy winter bees.
    • Wind protection is as important as insulation. A solid wind break on the north and west sides of your apiary can make or break winter survival.
    • Join the Wyoming Beekeepers Association to connect with experienced beekeepers who understand the state's extreme conditions.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Other State Regulations

    Beekeeping Cost Calculator

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

    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 Wyoming expects before you start.

    Read the Guide

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