Yes, beekeeping is legal in Tennessee, but compliance with state and local regulations is mandatory. The Tennessee Department of Agriculture (TDA) does not prohibit beekeeping outright, though counties and municipalities may impose additional restrictions. Recent 2026 updates to the Tennessee Apiary Act require registration with the TDA and adherence to disease control protocols.
Key Regulations for Keeping Bees in Tennessee
- Apiary Registration: All beekeepers must register their hives annually with the Tennessee Department of Agriculture (TDA) via the Tennessee Apiary Program. Failure to register may result in penalties or mandatory hive inspections.
- Disease and Pest Control: Tennessee mandates compliance with the Tennessee Apiary Act (T.C.A. § 43-14-101 et seq.), requiring beekeepers to report foulbrood, varroa mite infestations, or other contagious diseases to the TDA within 48 hours of detection.
- Local Zoning and Nuisance Laws: Municipalities like Nashville, Memphis, and Knoxville may impose setback requirements (e.g., 25–50 feet from property lines) or restrict hive placement in residential zones. Check county ordinances for specific limitations.
Additional compliance notes include:
- Chemical Use: Only EPA-approved treatments (e.g., oxalic acid, formic acid) may be used for pest management, with records retained for three years.
- Swarm Management: Beekeepers must prevent swarming that could impact neighboring properties, as nuisance complaints may trigger TDA or local health department interventions.
- 2026 Updates: The TDA’s revised Apiary Inspection Protocol (effective January 2026) introduces mandatory electronic reporting for disease outbreaks and stricter hive density limits in urban areas.
For further guidance, consult the TDA Apiary Program or local extension offices.