11-7-211. Forfeit of registration; termination of rights; disposition of equipment.
(a) The registration of an apiary which is not stocked with bees during at least forty-five (45) continuous days of the normal buildup or honey producing season is forfeited and all rights under the certificate of registration terminate.
(b) An apiary not regularly attended in accordance with good beekeeping practice, which comprises a hazard or threat to disease control in the beekeeping industry or which by reason of its physical condition or construction cannot be inspected, may be considered an abandoned apiary and may be seized by the department. Any diseased equipment or equipment which by reason of its physical condition or construction cannot be inspected may be burned, and any remaining equipment may be sold at public auction. Proceeds, after the cost of the sale is deducted, shall be returned to the former owner or his estate. Before burning or selling any equipment, the department shall give the owner or person in charge a written notice at least five (5) days before the burning or sale. The notice shall be given by certified mail or personal service upon the owner or person in charge of the property. If the owner or person in charge cannot be located, a certified letter sent to the owner's last address registered with the department is sufficient notice under this section.