Beekeeping is regulated at the state level by MGL c. 128, §§35–40 and by the MA Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR). Hives must be registered with MDAR. Local bylaws may add setback requirements.
Worcester County regulates residential beekeeping through zoning bylaws. Where permitted, hive counts are typically limited (2 to 4 for standard lots). Hives must meet setback requirements. Flyway barriers may be required. MGL c.128 §32A requires all beekeepers to register with the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) for disease inspection. MA’s climate supports productive beekeeping April through October.
Unauthorized hives: removal order. Nuisance complaints: mediation then fines. State registration violation: MDAR enforcement.
Worcester County, MA
No county ordinance. Dog and animal noise complaints are handled by individual city and town animal control officers. Each municipality sets its own nuisance...
Worcester County, MA
No county ordinance. Construction hour restrictions are set by individual cities and towns within Worcester County. Contact the relevant city or town buildin...
Worcester County, MA
Worcester County, MA has no county government and passes no ordinances. All noise rules are set by individual cities and towns. The county government was abo...
Worcester County, MA
No county commercial vehicle parking ordinance. Restrictions on commercial vehicle parking in residential zones are set by individual municipalities under lo...
Worcester County, MA
No county RV parking rule. Individual cities/towns regulate storage of recreational vehicles. Check each municipality's zoning ordinance for on-street and dr...
Worcester County, MA
No county parking ordinance. Street parking rules are set by individual municipalities. Contact your city or town public works or police department for local...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Worcester County.
See how other cities in Worcester County handle beekeeping.
See how Oxford's beekeeping rules stack up against other locations.
Quick Compare
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.