Milwaukee County has no beekeeping ordinance; each municipality regulates hives. The City of Milwaukee has allowed beekeeping since 2010, permitting up to two colonies on private property with a permit, an inspection, neighbor notification within 200 feet, and flyway and water requirements.
Beekeeping in Milwaukee County is regulated municipally, not by the county. The City of Milwaukee amended its animal code in 2010 (Chapter 78, section 78-6) to allow up to two colonies of honeybees on private property with a permit and inspection. The applicant provides a map of the apiary; neighbors within 200 feet are notified, and written permission may be required where hives sit within 50 feet of a dwelling. A flyway barrier at least six feet tall is required unless the hive is 10 feet or more above ground, and fresh water with a landing surface must be provided except in winter. Wisconsin also registers apiaries through DATCP, and suburban cities set their own rules.
Keeping bees in the City of Milwaukee without the permit and inspection, exceeding two colonies, or failing flyway, water or setback rules is a Chapter 78 violation. Neighborhood Services may cite and order hive removal if a nuisance results.
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