Hobbies And Interests
Bee Registration
Anyone who owns and operates one or more honey bee hives is required to register their bees annually. Registration needs to take place on or before Oct. 1 of each year through the Office of the State Entomologist. The only documentation required for the application is a mailing address, telephone number and the location of the hives. Applicants do not have to pay a fee to register their honey bees. However, failure to comply with this law can result in a small fine.
Public Records
The Office of the State Entomologist must keep a public record of all honey bee registrations. This information must include the name and address of the person who owns the bees and the exact location of the hive or hives. The office must also supply a copy to the town clerk where the applicant resides and maintains bees.
Bee Inspections
The Office of the State Entomologist in Connecticut is responsible for the inspection of bees suspected of contagious diseases. This department maintains the right to treat, quarantine and destroy bees whenever it is deemed necessary. People owning honey bee hives must allow any assigned inspectors to have full access to the location where the hives are kept. Colonies or packages of honey bees arriving from other countries, states or territories must come with an official certificate verifying that they are in good health. Anyone who receives a shipment that is lacking the proper documentation must hold it and inform the Office of the State Entomologist.