Chico, CA Animal Ordinances: Beekeeping (2026)
Key Facts
- Hive density
- 1 per 10,000 sq ft
- Registration
- Butte Co. Ag Commissioner
- Setback from structures
- 100 feet
- Zones allowed
- RS and R1 only
Summary
Chico allows honey bee hives only in RS and R1 residential zones, capped at one hive per 10,000 square feet of lot area and registered with Butte County.
The keeping of honey bees is permitted in the RS and R1 zoning districts as a form of small animal keeping subject to the following standards to minimize impacts to nearby residents or the public: 1. A maximum of one hive shall be allowed for each ten thousand (10,000) square feet of lot area; 2. Hive(s) shall be registered with the Butte County Agricultural Commissioner; ... 4. The location of the hive(s) shall not be less than 100 feet from any public right-of-way or any occupied structure other than that of the occupant of the subject parcel.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Supplement contains local legislation current through: Codified Resolution No. 53-26, adopted 7-14-26 and Ordinance No. 2622, adopted 6-2-26).
Full Breakdown
Under § 19.76.040.C, Chico allows residents to keep honey bee hives, but only in the RS and R1 residential zoning districts, and only as small animal keeping subject to standards meant to limit impacts on neighbors. Lot area determines hive count, one hive per 10,000 square feet, and every hive must be registered with the Butte County Agricultural Commissioner. Hives must sit at least 100 feet from any public right-of-way or occupied structure other than the beekeeper's own home, stand at least 6 feet up or behind a 6-foot flight barrier, and be kept free of disease under state law.
Violations & Fines
Chico's animal-keeping code separately bars any animal kept in a manner causing damage, hazard, dust, noise, or odor; code enforcement can require hive relocation or removal for nuisance violations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I keep bees in Chico?
Do I need to register my beehive in Chico?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Chico
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