Irvington, NJ Animal Ordinances: Beekeeping (2026)

Chapter 167, Article VI, adopted 3-27-2023 by Ord. No. MC 3821 (superseding a short-lived Ord. No. MC 3818), exists so Township beekeepers maintain hives properly, follow state rules and avoid becoming a nuisance to neighbors. Section 167-45 makes it unlawful to keep bees in Irvington without first obtaining a permit, with an initial fee of $75 for the first year, renewable annually under the Township's fee schedule. C. 2: up to three colonies on a quarter acre, six on a half acre, nine on three-quarters of an acre, twelve on a full acre, and on anything over an acre, three colonies per additional quarter acre up to a 40-hive ceiling.

A. 4:6-10; hives must sit at ground level or be securely anchored, and the Township may allow an anchored hive on a roof; every apiary needs an adequate clean water source within 25 feet of the hives at all times, especially March 1 through October 31; colonies must stay at least 25 feet from any public sidewalk, alley, street or road; the beekeeper or a delegate must inspect every colony at least three times between March 1 and October 1 each year; and a substantial barrier or fence is required to keep animals and children from getting close to the hives. Beekeepers must also comply with all New Jersey Department of Agriculture rules under Title 4, Chapter 6.