Carmel, IN Animal Ordinances: Beekeeping (2026)

Carmel regulates backyard bees as an accessory use under Section 5.02(C)(9) of the Unified Development Ordinance. The stated intent is to regulate beekeeping in accordance with state law. Where beekeeping qualifies as an agricultural nonconforming use under IC 36-7-4-616, the use continues only while it complies with state environmental and health laws, including IC 14-24-8 on annual registration of bees, and with the requirements for conforming agricultural land under the Hamilton County Zoning Ordinance as in effect on July 1, 2020.

Personal-use beekeeping that is not agricultural is permitted on property the person owns, rents, or leases, and the hive count depends on lot area. One hive is allowed on a lot up to 4,350 square feet. Two hives are allowed above 4,350 and up to 10,500 square feet. Four hives are allowed above 10,500 and up to 21,000 square feet. Six hives are allowed above 21,000 and up to 43,560 square feet, and eight hives are allowed on lots larger than 43,560 square feet.

Setbacks are measured from lot lines. Hives cannot sit forward of the front line of the principal building, or within 300 feet of a front lot line, whichever is less. Hives on the ground need a minimum of 15 feet from a side lot line and 20 feet from a rear lot line. A rooftop hive follows the setbacks of the structure it sits on.

Equipment and placement rules add more limits. Colonies live in movable-frame hives of no more than 12 cubic feet, spaced at least three feet apart when a lot holds more than one hive. Hives go on the ground or on the roof of a building with a permanent foundation. A ground hive cannot exceed five feet in height, and a roof hive sits a minimum of ten feet from the ground.

Carmel also sets care duties. The beekeeper keeps an adequate supply of fresh water near each hive, splits the hive or takes other immediate action when a colony attacks without provocation, and provides at least one swarm trap where bees are kept. If hives are visible from homes on adjacent lots, a six foot tall fence or landscaping hedge is required, and fences must meet Section 5.09. Every lot with hives carries a conspicuous sign announcing live bees, no larger than three square feet.