Honey, It's all the Buzz: Regulating Neighborhood Bee Hives
18 Pages Posted: 6 Sep 2011 Last revised: 23 Jul 2013
Date Written: September 6, 2011
Abstract
Urban beekeeping, along with other types of urban agriculture, sustainable development and green building, has generated quite a buzz in recent years. Small-scale beekeeping has proven to be especially popular among people looking to obtain more of their food from local sources and urban bees provide important pollination services to community gardens, home vegetable gardens and fruit trees. Some people also believe that honey contributes to a healthier lifestyle by providing a minimally-processed sweetener and through its various uses as a homeopathic remedy. Small-scale beekeeping may augment local economies too. Despite the benefits and growing popularity of backyard beekeeping, apiaries are not always welcomed by the neighbors. This article is designed to provide information to land use regulators about the benefits and drawbacks of beekeeping in residential areas, and it offers strategies for addressing beekeeping activities through local laws and ordinances.
Keywords: bees, beekeeping, apiaries, honey, urban agriculture, zoning, land use, land use regulation, agriculture, nuisance, USDA
JEL Classification: K11
Suggested Citation: Suggested Citation