Greensboro, NC Animal Ordinances: Beekeeping (2026)
Key Facts
- Setback
- 50 ft from any property line
- Density
- 1 colony per 1,500 sq ft
- Max Colonies
- 10 total
- Code Section
- LDO Sec. 30-8-11.3
Summary
Greensboro LDO Sec. 30-8-11.3 allows beekeeping. Hives must be 50+ ft from property lines. Max one colony per 1,500 sq ft, up to 10 colonies total.
seases and disorders and to provide regulatory services in the areas of pollination of plants, honeybee poisonings, thefts, bee management and marketing. (1977, c. 238, s. 1.) 106-635. Definitions. As used in this Article: (1) The term "apiary" means bees, comb, hives, appliances, or colonies, wherever they are kept, located, or found. (2) The term "bee(s)" means insects of the superfamily Apoidea; in particular, the honeybees, Apis mellifera (L). It includes all life stages of such insects, their genetic material, and dead remains. (3) The term "beeyard" means a location or site where bees are located in hives.
Official source re-checked September 8, 2026: the cited page had not changed since it was quoted.
Full Breakdown
Greensboro Land Development Ordinance Section 30-8-11.3 (Animals and Livestock) permits beekeeping as an accessory use in residential zones. Bee colonies and shelters must be located not less than 50 feet from any property line. No more than one colony is permitted for every 1,500 square feet of lot area, and in no case may the total number of colonies exceed 10. Beekeeping is also subject to Guilford County Code Chapter 5. North Carolina requires registration with the NC Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services for apiaries. The NC Bee and Honey Act (N.C.G.S. 106-634 et seq.) governs state-level apiary inspections and disease control. A water source should be provided for bees to prevent them from seeking water on neighboring properties. Hives should face away from neighboring dwellings and public walkways where practical. Contact the Greensboro Planning Department at 336-373-2144 for zoning questions or the Guilford County Beekeepers Association for local guidance.
Violations & Fines
Zoning violations enforced by Code Compliance. Non-compliance with setbacks or colony limits may result in abatement orders.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many beehives can I have in Greensboro?
Do I need a permit to keep bees in Greensboro?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Greensboro
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Beekeeping in Nearby Cities
How other cities in this county handle beekeeping.