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Maricopa, AZ Animal Ordinances: Beekeeping (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified August 2026

Key Facts

Apiary setback
75 feet from any residence
Aviary setback
40 feet from any residence
Governing section
MCC 18.80.030(A)(1)
Permit required
None: setback only
First-offense fine
up to $100

Summary

Backyard beekeeping is allowed citywide, but the zoning code sets a placement rule: apiary hives must sit at least 75 feet from any neighboring residence.

A. Aviaries and Apiaries.

1. Buildings or hives for apiaries may not be closer than 75 feet to any neighboring residence.

2. Pens and structures for aviaries may not be closer than 40 feet to any neighboring residence.

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 26-10, passed April 21, 2026).

Full Breakdown

Maricopa's zoning code treats beekeeping as an accessory animal-keeping use permitted in every zoning district under Chapter 18.80 MCC. The operative standard, MCC 18.80.030(A)(1), is specific: buildings or hives used for apiaries may not be closer than 75 feet to any neighboring residence, a wider buffer than the 40-foot setback the same subsection sets for aviaries. There is no cap on hive count and no standalone beekeeping permit; the 75-foot measurement runs to the nearest neighboring residence, not the property line, and applies regardless of district. The zoning administrator enforces the standard through the city's code enforcement process.

Violations & Fines

Placing hives inside the 75-foot buffer is a zoning code violation: base fines run up to $100 for a first offense, $200 for a second, and up to $500 per additional violation under MCC 18.190.060.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I keep bees in a Maricopa backyard?
Yes. Beekeeping is an allowed accessory use in every zoning district, provided the hives sit at least 75 feet from the nearest neighboring residence under MCC 18.80.030(A)(1).
Does Maricopa require a beekeeping permit?
No standalone bee permit exists. The code only imposes the 75-foot hive setback under the animal-keeping standards in Chapter 18.80 MCC.
How is the 75-foot setback measured?
From the building or hive to the nearest neighboring residence, not to the property or lot line.

Sources & Official References

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