Modesto allows beekeeping in residential areas with restrictions under county agricultural regulations. Hives must be maintained properly, kept away from property lines and public areas, and water sources must be provided. Stanislaus County Agricultural Commissioner oversees bee-related issues.
Beekeeping is permitted in Modesto residential areas subject to nuisance and safety requirements. Hives should be maintained at least 10 feet from property lines and have flyway barriers (fences or hedges) at least 6 feet tall to direct bee flight paths upward. A water source must be provided on-site to prevent bees from seeking water on neighboring properties. The number of hives should be reasonable for the lot size. Stanislaus County Agricultural Commissioner handles bee-related complaints. California's Central Valley is major agricultural territory, and beekeeping supports local almond, fruit, and vegetable pollination. Africanized bee concerns require beekeepers to maintain gentle European honeybee stock.
Nuisance bee colony: abatement by County Agricultural Commissioner. Failure to maintain safe conditions: citation.
Modesto, CA
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