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Anchorage, AK Animal Ordinances: Beekeeping (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Max colonies (lots <10,000 sq ft)
4 colonies
Setback option A
25 ft from lot line
Setback option B
10 ft, entrance turned away
Fence option
6 ft tall, 5 ft past hive

Summary

Anchorage allows residential beekeeping but sets hive placement rules to keep bee flight paths off neighboring property.

Colonies of Apis mellifera shall be managed in such a manner that their flight path to and from the hive will not bring them into contact with people on adjacent property. To accomplish this, colonies shall be: At least 25 feet from any lot line not in common ownership; or ... placed behind a fence at least six feet in height and extending at least five feet beyond the hive in all directions. No more than four colonies shall be placed on lots smaller than 10,000 square feet.

Source: AMC Title 17 AnimalsView official code

Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: rev 5010260; v11 updated 2026-09-01).

Full Breakdown

Anchorage's zoning code treats beekeeping as an accessory residential use and regulates hive placement rather than banning it. Colonies of honey bees (Apis mellifera) must be positioned so their flight path won't bring bees into contact with people next door: hives need to sit at least 25 feet from any lot line not in common ownership, or at least 10 feet away with entrances turned away from the neighboring property, or be screened behind a fence at least 6 feet tall that extends 5 feet past the hive on every side. Lots under 10,000 square feet are capped at four colonies.

Violations & Fines

No stated fine schedule in the accessory-use standard; noncompliant hive placement is enforceable as a zoning code violation through Title 21/14 code enforcement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is backyard beekeeping legal in Anchorage?
Yes. Anchorage's zoning code lists beekeeping as an allowed accessory residential use, subject to hive-placement standards, not a permit or ban.
How many hives can I keep on a small residential lot?
On lots smaller than 10,000 square feet, no more than four colonies are allowed under AMC 21.05.070D.4.

Sources & Official References

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All Anchorage rules

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