Palo Alto allows backyard beekeeping with up to 2 hives on residential lots, with 10-foot setbacks and required flyway barriers near property lines.
Backyard beekeeping is permitted in Palo Alto under PAMC Chapter 18.42 with registration through Santa Clara County Agricultural Commissioner (required by California Food and Agricultural Code for any apiary). Residents may keep up to 2 hives on a typical R-1 lot, with additional hives allowed on larger parcels. Hives must be set back at least 10 feet from any property line and 25 feet from any dwelling. A 6-foot solid flyway barrier (fence or dense hedge) is required within 10 feet of the hive if located near a pedestrian path or property line, forcing bees to fly upward. Water must be provided on-site to prevent bees from foraging at neighbor pools. Registration with the County costs under 25 dollars per year.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Palo Alto, CA
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Palo Alto, CA
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Palo Alto, CA
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Palo Alto, CA
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Palo Alto, CA
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Palo Alto, CA
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