Yes, keeping bees is legal in Virginia, provided compliance with state and local regulations.
Beekeeping is permitted statewide under Virginia’s Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) guidelines, but local ordinances may impose additional restrictions. Recent 2026 updates to the Virginia Pollinator Protection Act require hive registration and disease monitoring, aligning with federal USDA standards. Violations may trigger fines or mandatory hive inspections.
Key Regulations for Keeping Bees in Virginia
- Hive Registration: All beekeepers must register colonies annually with VDACS under §3.2-4900 of the Virginia Code. Registration includes location details and colony counts to track disease outbreaks.
- Disease Management: Mandatory reporting of Varroa destructor infestations or foulbrood to VDACS within 48 hours. Non-compliance risks quarantine orders or hive destruction.
- Local Zoning: Counties like Fairfax and Arlington impose setback requirements (e.g., 25-foot distance from property lines) and may limit hive numbers based on lot size. Check with local zoning boards for 2026 revisions.
Additional Considerations
- Apiary Inspections: VDACS conducts unannounced inspections for apiary health, focusing on pesticide exposure and colony strength.
- Labeling Requirements: Honey sold commercially must include producer contact information and comply with FDA labeling standards.
- Nuisance Laws: Excessive swarming or aggressive hives may violate local noise or public health ordinances, even if state regulations are met.