Baltimore permits residential beekeeping under TransForm zoning rules. Up to two colonies are allowed per typical lot, with additional hives permitted on larger parcels. Hives must be set back from property lines and registered with Maryland Department of Agriculture.
Beekeeping is an accessory use in most residential zones under Article 32. Lots smaller than 5,000 square feet may keep two colonies; larger lots scale up. Hives must be at least 10 feet from any property line and 25 feet from neighboring dwellings unless a six-foot flyway barrier is installed. Maryland Department of Agriculture registration is mandatory under Maryland Agriculture Article section 5-505. Aggressive Africanized colonies must be requeened. The Central Maryland Beekeepers Association advises new urban keepers.
Unregistered hives subject to MDA enforcement and $250 per-hive fines. Setback violations cited by Baltimore Housing; repeat issues lead to colony removal orders.
Baltimore, MD
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See how Baltimore's beekeeping rules stack up against other locations.
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