Yakima County, WA Animal Ordinances: Beekeeping (2026)
Key Facts
- Registration
- With state agriculture dept
- Deadline
- April 1 annually
- County Character
- Agricultural, bee-friendly
- Cities
- May set hive setbacks
- State Law
- Right to Farm protection
Summary
Beekeeping fits Yakima County's agricultural character and is broadly allowed, with cities setting hive placement and setbacks. Washington requires anyone owning one or more hives to register with the state Department of Agriculture by April 1 each year.
Each person owning one or more hives with bees, brokers renting hives, and apiarists resident in other states who operate hives in Washington shall register with the director by April 1st each year.
Full Breakdown
Honey bees are welcome across agricultural Yakima County, whose orchards and crops depend on pollination. The binding statewide rule is registration: under RCW 15.60.021, every person owning one or more hives with bees must register with the Washington State Department of Agriculture by April 1 each year and pay a fee, which supports apiary inspection for disease. Cities may add zoning setbacks and hive limits for residential lots, and qualifying commercial apiaries gain Right to Farm protection from nuisance suits. Provide a reliable water source so foraging bees stay off neighbors' property.
Violations & Fines
Failing to register hives with the Department of Agriculture by April 1 violates RCW 15.60.021. A municipality can enforce residential hive setbacks, and a poorly managed apiary can draw a nuisance complaint.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to register my beehives?
Can cities limit backyard hives?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Yakima County
Compare Yakima County to another location·View the Washington animal ordinances overview
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