Dane County, WI Animal Ordinances: Beekeeping (2026)
Key Facts
- Permitted Use
- Yes – agricultural and domestic beekeeping
- DATCP Registration
- Required – Wis. Stat. §93.45
- Code
- Dane County Chapter 10 – Zoning
- Topic
- Beekeeping
Summary
Beekeeping is permitted as an agricultural use in Dane County. Wisconsin DATCP apiary registration (Wis. Stat. §93.45) is required. County zoning (Chapter 10) classifies domestic beekeeping as a distinct land use.
(c) Bees. The keeping of honeybees in the yards of single family residences or duplexes located in any zoning district shall be a permitted use, if the use complies with the following: 1. Each residential lot shall be allowed to have at least 6 hives per lot. For residential lots over 10,000 square feet, no more than one hive per 1,600 square feet of lot area is permitted. 2. A supply of water shall be provided for all hives. 3. A flyway barrier at least six (6) feet in height shall shield any part of a property line that is within twenty-five (25) feet of a hive. (d) Location of covered and fenced enclosures and hives. 1. Covered and fenced enclosures or hives shall be within the rear or side yard, and must be at least four (4) feet from any property line. 2. Covered and fenced enclosures or hives shall not be closer than 25 feet to any principal residence on an adjacent lot.
Full Breakdown
Dane County Chapter 10 recognizes both agricultural beekeeping and domestic beekeeping as distinct land uses. Domestic beekeeping (backyard beekeeping) is permitted in residential-transitional (TR) districts subject to zoning standards. All apiaries must be registered with the Wisconsin DATCP under Wis. Stat. §93.45. Hive placement, setbacks from property lines, and water source requirements may apply in residential zoning districts.
Violations & Fines
Operating an unregistered apiary violates Wis. Stat. §93.45. Beehives that violate zoning setbacks may result in Dane County zoning citations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep bees on my rural Dane County property?
Do I need to register my hives with Wisconsin DATCP?
Is backyard beekeeping allowed in Dane County residential zones?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Dane County
Compare Dane County to another location·View the Wisconsin animal ordinances overview
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