Fargo allows beekeeping with registration through the ND Department of Agriculture. North Dakota is the top honey-producing state and beekeeping is broadly supported.
Fargo permits beekeeping subject to state registration and local zoning. North Dakota leads the nation in honey production under NDCC §36-12 apiary inspection laws. All apiaries must be registered with the ND Department of Agriculture. Local ordinances may limit hive numbers in residential areas, typically 2 to 4 hives per lot. Hives should face away from neighboring properties with a flyway barrier of 6 feet. Water sources must be provided to prevent bees from seeking neighbor pools or birdbaths. Setbacks of 10 to 25 feet from property lines are common. Africanized bee strains are not present in North Dakota.
Unregistered hives: ND Dept of Agriculture penalties apply. Local violations: $50 to $200 fines. Nuisance complaints may require hive relocation or removal.
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