Pima County, AZ Animal Ordinances: Beekeeping (2026)
Key Facts
- Setback
- 30 feet from lot line
- Barrier height
- 6 feet minimum
- Colonies (1/4 acre)
- 2 colonies max
- Colonies (1 acre+)
- 8 colonies plus more
- Applies to
- Unincorporated county only
Summary
Unincorporated Pima County allows beehives in every zone if you meet colony density limits, a 30-foot setback, and a flight barrier.
E. Beekeeping is permitted in all zones subject to the requirements of this section: ... 2. Bee hives shall be kept a minimum of thirty feet from any exterior lot boundary line. 3. Except for lots with an area greater than one acre, a barrier shall be erected that will prevent bees from flying through it. Such barrier shall: a. Be at least six feet in height and shall consist of a dense plant or hedge or any opaque constructed material; b. Extend at least eighteen feet beyond the hive(s) in both directions.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2026 S-64: Contains Supplement, with local legislation through Ordinance 2026-9, passed 7-28-2026, current through 7-28-2026).
Full Breakdown
Beekeeping is permitted in all unincorporated Pima County zones, but colony counts scale with lot size (two colonies on a quarter acre up to eight-plus on larger parcels). Hives must sit at least 30 feet from any exterior lot line, and unless the lot exceeds one acre, a six-foot barrier extending 18 feet past the hives on each side is required to force bees to fly up and over neighboring yards.
Violations & Fines
Zoning inspectors who find noncompliant hives notify the Pima County health department; a colony deemed a nuisance or hazard is handled jointly by the health and zoning inspectors, which can mean removal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep bees in a Pima County residential zone?
Do I need a fence around my hives?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Pima County
Compare Pima County to another location·View the Arizona animal ordinances overview
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