Benton County, WA Animal Ordinances: Beekeeping (2026)
Key Facts
- State Registration
- Required by April 1
- State Law
- RCW 15.60.021
- Rural Land
- Largely unrestricted
- City Lots
- Limits and setbacks
- Water Source
- Provide near hives
Summary
Beekeeping is welcome across rural Benton County, and its irrigated farmland and wine-country bloom support strong colonies. Anyone keeping hives must register yearly with the state under RCW 15.60.021; the Tri-Cities may add hive limits and setbacks.
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
Benton County's irrigated Columbia Basin farms, orchards, and vineyards make it good bee country, and hobby and commercial beekeeping are both common. Washington requires every beekeeper to register hives annually with the state Department of Agriculture by April 1 under RCW 15.60.021, whatever the colony size. On residential and Tri-Cities lots, expect local limits on hive counts, setbacks from property lines, a required water source, and flyway barriers that lift bee flight above head height. Rural agricultural land is largely unrestricted. Gentle stock, water, and shade keep neighbors comfortable through the hot, dry summers.
Violations & Fines
Failing to register hives with the state can bring penalties under the apiary law, and a hive kept contrary to city limits or creating a nuisance can draw a local abatement order.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to register my bees?
Can I keep bees on a city lot?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Benton County
Compare Benton County to another location·View the Washington animal ordinances overview
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