Applications for the Beehive Distribution Program (Program) are now being accepted. Submit your application any time during July 20 through August 4, 2021.
To submit an application, click the “Beehive Distribution Online Application” link below. If you wish to submit a paper application, please click the “Paper Application” link below, fill out the required information, and mail the completed application to:
Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services
Office of Plant Industry Services
ATTN: Beehive Distribution Program
PO Box 1163,
Richmond, Virginia, 23218
Only applications submitted (i) online during the application period, or (ii) postmarked no later than August 4 will be accepted. Any applications submitted online before July 20, or after August 4 will not be accepted. Paper applications that are postmarked after August 4, 2021 will not be accepted.
Applications that were submitted in previous years will not carry over to the current Program. In addition, applications from previous years cannot be resubmitted. To qualify for beehive units, individuals must submit a new application using the “Beehive Distribution Online Application” or “Paper Application” links below.
Recipients of beehive units will be selected at random from accepted applications. Beehive units will not be awarded based on the order in which applications are received.
Individuals should provide a valid email address with their application since notifications regarding the status of an application will be sent by email.
The Program provides equipment directly to eligible individuals for the construction of new beehives. Residents of the Commonwealth of Virginia who are 18 years of age or older at the time an application is submitted are eligible to receive up to three (3) beehive units per year. Multiple individuals residing in the same household may submit an application, however no more than three (3) beehive units per household will be distributed.
Individuals who submit an application for a beehive unit through the Program will be registered as a beekeeper with the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. Beehive equipment received through the Program must be assembled and occupied with a colony of honey bees within one (1) year of receiving the equipment. Honey bees and equipment to manage beehives, such as personal safety equipment and honey processing equipment, are not provided through the Program. Instructions for applying to receive beehive units through the Program can be found in the Guidelines & Requirements.
Individuals receiving beehive units are encouraged to enter their apiary location in the BeeCheck mapping system.
