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Pierce County, WA Animal Ordinances: Beekeeping (2026)

Some Restrictions

Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified July 2026

Key Facts

Allowed: Yes, under PCC 8.94
WSDA registration: Required
Hive type: Movable-frame
Setback: 25 feet from lot line
Closer allowed: 6-foot flyway barrier

Summary

Beekeeping is allowed in unincorporated Pierce County under PCC Chapter 8.94. Hives must be registered with the Washington State Department of Agriculture, kept in movable-frame hives, and placed at least 25 feet from a property line (closer only behind a 6-foot flyway barrier).

City-specific rules exist: Lakewood, and Tacoma have their own beekeeping rules that differ from Pierce County's county-level regulations. If you live in one of those cities, check the city-specific page instead.

Hives shall be at least 25 feet from a property line, with the hive(s) entrance(s) facing away from or parallel to the nearest property line.

View official code

Official source re-checked September 8, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: current through Ordinance 2026-515, and legislation passed through May 26, 2026).

Full Breakdown

Pierce County Code Chapter 8.94 (Beekeeping/Apiaries) sets countywide standards for honey bees. Under PCC 8.94.030, 'all honey bee hives shall be registered with the Washington State Department of Agriculture,' colonies must be kept in movable-frame hives (unless WSDA-exempted as an educational exhibit), apiaries kept clean and orderly, and diseased hives prevented. PCC 8.94.040 governs placement: 'Hives shall be at least 25 feet from a property line, with the hive(s) entrance(s) facing away from or parallel to the nearest property line.' Hives may be closer if placed behind a 6-foot-high flyway barrier fence extending at least 25 feet in both directions, or placed at least eight feet above adjacent ground level.

Violations & Fines

Keeping unregistered hives, using non-movable-frame hives, failing to maintain the 25-foot setback or flyway barrier, or allowing diseased or nuisance colonies violates PCC Chapter 8.94 and can be abated by the county; WSDA registration and disease rules are enforced under

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I keep bees in Pierce County?

Yes. PCC Chapter 8.94 allows beekeeping. Hives must be registered with the Washington State Department of Agriculture, use movable frames, and sit at least 25 feet from a property line.

Can my hives be close to the fence line?

Only if screened. PCC 8.94.040 allows hives under 25 feet from a property line if placed behind a 6-foot flyway barrier extending 25 feet each way, or set at least eight feet above ground level.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Pierce County

Dog Leash LawsSome Restrictions Chickens & LivestockSome Restrictions Pet LimitsSome Restrictions Cat RulesSome Restrictions Exotic PetsHeavy Restrictions Pet Groomer RulesSome Restrictions Mandatory Spay/NeuterSignificant Restrictions MicrochippingSignificant Restrictions Pet Store RulesHeavy Restrictions Breed RestrictionsFew Restrictions Fence Regulations: Retaining WallsSome Restrictions Fence Regulations: Material RestrictionsSome Restrictions Landscaping Rules: Rainwater HarvestingLight Restrictions Building Safety: Fire Sprinkler RequirementsHeavy Restrictions Building Safety: Plumbing PermitsSome Restrictions Building Safety: Green Building CodeLight Restrictions

All Pierce County rules

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