Interested in beekeeping? Virginia officials will help you get started for free
Virginia residents interested in beekeeping have a chance to receive free beehive equipment through a state program now accepting applications.
The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services opened the application period for its annual Beehive Distribution Program Tuesday, Aug. 25. Applications will be accepted through Sept. 9.
The program provides free beehive assembly equipment to Virginia residents in an effort to increase the number of actively managed honey bee colonies in the state. Recipients are selected at random from among qualifying applicants.
Virginia residents who are at least 18 years old are eligible to apply. Businesses, nonprofit organizations and government agencies are not eligible.
Multiple people living at the same address may apply, but no household or mailing address may receive more than three beehive units during the same fiscal year.
The program provides the hive equipment but not the bees themselves or other supplies needed for beekeeping, such as protective equipment, tools or honey-processing equipment. Those selected must assemble their equipment and establish a honey bee colony in the hive within one year of receiving it.
State officials strongly encourage prospective beekeepers to complete an introductory beekeeping course before establishing a colony.
“Honey bees are valued pollinators for our ecosystems and agricultural operations across the Commonwealth,” State Apiarist Keith Tignor said. “The Beehive Distribution Program provides residents with an engaging way to participate in increasing the number of pollinators and enhancing the quality of our environment for present and future generations.”
Demand for the program significantly exceeds the number of hives available. VDACS received more than 6,400 applications in 2025 and ultimately distributed 1,002 hives to 415 people. The agency typically distributes about 1,000 hives to at least 400 Virginians each year.
Recipients also can access educational programs, technical assistance and other support through Virginia Cooperative Extension and local beekeeping organizations.
Applications must be submitted by Sept. 9. Complete information, eligibility requirements and the application are available through the Virginia Beehive Distribution Program.
For details, contact the VDACS Office of Plant Industry Services at (804) 786-8938 or vabees@vdacs.virginia.gov.
