Arlington Heights permits beekeeping on residential property subject to conditions. The Village amended its ordinance to allow backyard beekeeping with restrictions on hive placement, number of colonies, and flyway barriers. Illinois does not prohibit residential beekeeping and the Illinois Department of Agriculture maintains a voluntary apiary registration program.
Arlington Heights allows residents to keep honeybee colonies on residential property. Hives must be placed in the rear yard and set back from property lines. A flyway barrier such as a fence or dense hedge at least six feet tall is required near hives to force bees to fly upward when leaving, reducing encounters with neighbors. The number of colonies permitted typically depends on lot size; smaller residential lots are limited to fewer hives. Hives must be maintained in good condition and managed to prevent swarming. A fresh water source must be provided on the property to prevent bees from seeking water on neighboring properties. Beekeepers should practice good apiary management including regular inspections and requeening aggressive colonies. The Illinois Department of Agriculture offers voluntary apiary registration which can help with disease monitoring. Cook County may have additional requirements. Beekeepers should notify immediate neighbors as a courtesy, though the ordinance does not mandate written neighbor consent.
Failure to maintain required setbacks, flyway barriers, or water sources may result in code enforcement action. Complaints about aggressive bee behavior or swarms may trigger an inspection. Fines apply for non-compliance with hive placement requirements. Contact Code Enforcement at (847) 368-5200.
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