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Joliet, IL Animal Ordinances: Beekeeping (2026)

Heavy Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Code Section
Sec. 6-10(c)
Residential
Prohibited
Exception
Farm property only (Sec. 47-3.9(c))
State Preemption
None

Summary

Joliet prohibits keeping bee apiaries on residential property under Section 6-10(c), which bans all farm animals including bees within the city except on property meeting the farm definition in the zoning ordinance.

"Apiary" means a place where one or more hives or colonies of bees are kept. "Bee diseases" means any infectious or contagious diseases of bees as specified by the Department, including but not limited to American foulbrood. "Bee equipment" means hives, supers, frames, or any other devices used in beekeeping. "Bee parasites" means any parasite of bees as specified by the Department. "Beekeeper" means a person who keeps bees. "Beekeeping" means the raising or producing of bees, beeswax, honey, and by-products and the transporting of bees, colonies or items of bee equipment. "Bees" means the common honey bee, Apis mellifera (L) in any stage of its life cycle. "Colony" means the entire honey bee family or social unit living together.

Source: Joliet Code Ch. 6 Animals and FowlView official code

Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: the cited page had not changed since it was quoted.

Full Breakdown

Joliet Code of Ordinances Section 6-10(c) lists bee apiaries among the farm animals prohibited from being owned, harbored, kept, or permitted within the city limits. This prohibition applies to all residential properties. Farm animals, including bees, are only allowed on property meeting the definition and criteria of a farm as set forth in Section 47-3.9(c) of the zoning ordinance. Illinois state law does not preempt local beekeeping restrictions, so Joliet's ban is enforceable.

Violations & Fines

Fines up to $750 per offense under Section 1-8. Bees may be ordered removed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I keep bees in Joliet?
No. Section 6-10(c) specifically lists bee apiaries among the prohibited farm animals in residential areas. Only properties meeting the farm definition in the zoning ordinance are exempt.
Is beekeeping legal anywhere in Joliet?
Only on property meeting the farm definition under zoning ordinance Section 47-3.9(c). Standard residential lots do not qualify.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Joliet

Noise Ordinances: Construction HoursSome RestrictionsDog Leash LawsSome RestrictionsChickens & LivestockSignificant RestrictionsBird ProtectionSome RestrictionsExotic PetsHeavy RestrictionsWildlife FeedingSome RestrictionsPet Store RulesSignificant RestrictionsMicrochippingSome RestrictionsCoyote ManagementSome RestrictionsBreed RestrictionsSignificant RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Vehicle NoiseSome RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Barking DogsLight RestrictionsParking Rules: Driveway RulesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Snow Removal Parking RulesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Commercial & Oversized VehiclesSignificant Restrictions

All Joliet rules

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