Brentwood, CA Animal Ordinances: Beekeeping (2026)

Beekeeping (apiculture) in Brentwood is governed by BMC Title 17 zoning provisions and state Food & Agricultural Code. On agricultural (A-zoned) parcels, beekeeping is permitted by right with no hive limit. On residential parcels, beekeeping is allowed subject to setback and number-of-hives limits (commonly 2 hives on lots under 10,000 sq ft, 4 hives on larger lots). Hives must typically be set back 10-20 feet from property lines, and a water source must be provided on the beekeeper's property to discourage bees from congregating at neighbors' pools. All beekeepers in California must register with their County Agricultural Commissioner annually under Food & Ag Code §29040 and pay a small fee (typically $10-25/year). Hives must be registered within 30 days of acquisition. Registration supports the state's pesticide-notification program that protects bees from nearby agricultural spraying. Brentwood's extensive orchards and farms create strong forage conditions and partnerships with commercial pollination services are common.