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Oak Lawn, IL Animal Ordinances: Beekeeping (2026)

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

Key Facts

State Law
510 ILCS 20. Bees and Apiaries Act
Registration
Required with IL State Apiarist
Local Status
Check with Community Development
Contact
Community Development: 708-499-7800

Summary

No specific Oak Lawn beekeeping ordinance identified. Illinois Bees and Apiaries Act (510 ILCS 20) requires state apiarist registration. Contact Oak Lawn Community Development for current zoning guidance.

"Bee diseases" means any infectious or contagious diseases of bees as specified by the Department, including but not limited to American foulbrood. "Bee equipment" means hives, supers, frames, or any other devices used in beekeeping. "Bee parasites" means any parasite of bees as specified by the Department. "Beekeeper" means a person who keeps bees. "Beekeeping" means the raising or producing of bees, beeswax, honey, and by-products and the transporting of bees, colonies or items of bee equipment. "Bees" means the common honey bee, Apis mellifera (L) in any stage of its life cycle. "Colony" means the entire honey bee family or social unit living together.

Source: Oak Lawn Village CodeView official code

Full Breakdown

Oak Lawn does not have a widely published standalone beekeeping ordinance. Illinois Bees and Apiaries Act (510 ILCS 20) requires beekeepers to register with the Illinois State Apiarist. Contact Oak Lawn Community Development at 708-499-7800 to confirm whether beekeeping is permitted in your zoning district.

Violations & Fines

Failure to register with the state may result in penalties. Local nuisance complaints may apply if bees cause disturbances to neighbors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I keep bees in my backyard in Oak Lawn?
No specific Oak Lawn beekeeping ordinance identified. Illinois Bees and Apiaries Act (510 ILCS 20) requires state apiarist registration. Contact Oak Lawn Community Development for current zoning guidance.
What are the beekeeping regulations in Oak Lawn?
State Law: 510 ILCS 20. Bees and Apiaries Act. Registration: Required with IL State Apiarist. Local Status: Check with Community Development. Contact: Community Development: 708-499-7800.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Oak Lawn

All Oak Lawn rules

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