VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE AND CONSUMER SERVICES
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BEEKEEPING & APIARY INSPECTION
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Since their introduction in the early 1600's, honey bees have been an essential part of agriculture in North America. Production of honey is the most widely viewed benefit of honey bees. However, their value as pollinators far exceeds honey production.
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The Virginia Bee Law authorizes an apiary inspection program which promotes the science of beekeeping, as well as regulates the movement of honey bees into the state and the sale of bees, queens and used bee equipment. The Virginia Bee Law requires that honey bees on combs, hives and equipment with combs must be accompanied by a certificate of health issued by the Office of Plant Industry Services prior to being sold in Virginia. In addition, any person who brings honey bees on combs or used equipment with comb into the Commonwealth must first obtain an Entry Permit from Virginia’s State Apiarist. Queens and packaged honey bees brought into the Commonwealth must be accompanied by a certificate of health issued by the state of origin.
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To facilitate communication between beekeepers and agricultural producers and pesticides applicators VDACS has acquired BeeCheck™, Apiary Registry by FieldWatch®. The program is an on-line system for mapping apiary locations and providing beekeeper contact information. Participation is free and voluntary.
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For interstate movement of hives, Virginia uses a uniform inspection certificate. Virginia also participates in the Mid-Atlantic States Agreement, which specifies inspection requirements for bee diseases and pests.
Office of Plant Industry Services staff members frequently give presentations, participate in demonstrations and conduct programs to educate the public about the importance of honey bees, beekeeping practices and pollination.
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Services & Resources
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Virginia Pollinator: Resource for Virginians who need bees or have bees to rent for pollination.
Beekeeping Ordinance by City
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​Look up your City or County ordinances here. ​if you cannot find an ordinance on beekeeping for your city please also check the nuisance laws which often covers keeping bees and other livestock
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Beekeeping Best Management Practice
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Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services
Office of Plant and Pest Services
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P.O. Box 1163
Richmond, VA 23218
Telephone: 804.786.3515
FAX: 804.371.7793
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Email: VABees@vdacs.virginia.gov
Website: http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov
State Apiarist Keith Tignor
email: keith.tignor@vdacs.virginia.gov
Antibiotic Use Laws
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Limited Liability Virginia
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FARMERS' MARKET VENDORS
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Food establishments, including farmers' markets, that manufacture, process, pack or hold food for sale are subject to the Virginia Food Laws and related regulations.
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Enforcement of these requirements includes regular periodic inspections of food establishments, including farmers' markets. VDACS’ Food Safety Specialists, also known as inspectors, ensure that any food or beverage manufactured, produced, processed, packed, exposed, offered, possessed or held for sale is safe for human consumption, and in compliance with the Virginia Food Laws and related regulations. Inspectors look for evidence of unsanitary conditions, mislabeling and the mishandling of food products that can lead to unsafe foods.
Manufacturers are subject to unannounced inspections and sampling. Vendors and market managers are encouraged to contact the VDACS Food Safety Program office with questions concerning safe food handling practices.
Food service vendors at farmers' markets are permitted by the Virginia Department of Health.
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Applications
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Laws & Regulations
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Additional Resources
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FAQs: Virginia’s New Home Kitchen Food Processing Exemptions (pdf)
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Guidelines for Providing Safe Food Samples at the Market (pdf)
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Contact
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Regional Contact Map (pdf)
Labeling Laws