The regulations covering the importation of honey bees and other pollinator bees into the contiguous United States were revised. The new regulations went into effect 22 November 2004 (7 CFR 322).
The Following General Restrictions Apply to the Transit of Live Honey Bees, Bee Byproducts, and Bee Equipment
- Whole colonies in hive bodies cannot transit from any country; only queen bees with attendants and package bees are authorized.
- Used beekeeping equipment cannot transit.
- Beeswax for beekeeping requires special treatment as noted under Importation or Transit of Restricted Articles and Organisms (7 CFR 322.28-32).
- Honey for bee feed cannot transit without special treatment noted under Importation or Transit of Restricted Articles and Organisms (7 CFR 322.28-32).
- Pollen cannot transit the United States.