A. 1. Any beekeeper who requests inspection of an apiary, colony, hive, apiary equipment, or premise pursuant to the Oklahoma Apiary Act, is subject to an inspection fee as established by the State Board of Agriculture.

2. During an inspection or upon request, the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food, and Forestry may take samples. The manner of sampling, the cost of sampling, and the method of testing shall be established by the Board.

B. Any inspections of an apiary performed at the request of a beekeeper shall be limited to availability of time and personnel.

C. 1. Standard precautions for the prevention of the transmission of bee diseases or pests to humans, animals, and bees shall be followed by the Department when inspecting apiaries pursuant to their official duties specified by the Oklahoma Apiary Act.

2. Except for emergency situations or when enforcement of the provisions of the Oklahoma Apiary Act is required, the Department shall observe the health standards and sanitary requirements of the apiary.

Historical Data

Amended by Laws 1988, HB 1830, c. 259, § 10, emerg. eff. July 1, 1988; Amended by Laws 2000, SB 1424, c. 367, § 25, emerg. eff. June 6, 2000 (superseded document available); Amended by Laws 2005, HB 1809, c. 135, § 7, eff. November 1, 2005 (superseded document available).