Pickerington, OH Animal Ordinances: Beekeeping (2026)
Key Facts
- State Registration
- ORC 909.02
- Agency
- Ohio Dept of Agriculture
- Setback
- Zoning-dependent
- Annual Fee
- 5 dollars
Summary
Beekeeping in Pickerington is governed by city zoning and the Ohio Department of Agriculture apiary registration. Hives are generally permitted on residential lots that meet setback requirements, with registration required under ORC 909.
(A) A maple syrup or sorghum processor and beekeeper described in division (A) of section 3715.021 of the Revised Code may request that the director of agriculture conduct a voluntary inspection of the processor's or beekeeper's facilities. After the inspection is completed, if the inspector determines that the facilities comply with the rules adopted by the director pursuant to division (B) of this section, the processor or beekeeper may place on the label required under section 3715.023 of the Revised Code a seal of conformity and inspection of the department of agriculture. (B) The director shall adopt rules in accordance with Chapter 119. of the Revised Code that establish the following: (1) Standards that maple syrup or sorghum processors and beekeepers must satisfy in order to be permitted to place on the label of their food products a seal of conformity and inspection of the director, as described in division (A) of this section; (2) The seal of conformity and inspection to be used for purposes described in division (A) of this section.
Full Breakdown
Ohio law (ORC 909.02) requires every beekeeper to register hives annually with the Ohio Department of Agriculture. Pickerington zoning does not prohibit beekeeping in residential districts, but hives must comply with setback and screening rules in the zoning code. Colonies should be placed at least 10 feet from property lines with a flyway barrier when adjacent to occupied properties.
Violations & Fines
Unregistered hives violate state law and carry fines up to 100 dollars. Zoning violations for improper placement can result in abatement orders.
Sources & Official References
- [1]ORC 909.02
Other rules in Pickerington
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