Pittsburgh, PA Animal Ordinances: Beekeeping (2026)

Under Pittsburgh Code § 912.07(B), beekeeping is authorized by right as an accessory use on any occupied residential lot citywide, with no discretionary permit required. Hive counts scale with lot size: two hives on a 2,000-square-foot lot, plus two more per additional 2,000 square feet. Hive structures must meet the underlying zoning district's setbacks and sit at least 10 feet from any property line, or be roof-mounted at least 10 feet above grade outside the required setback. Where a hive sits within 20 feet of a property line, the keeper must install a 6-foot flyway barrier of solid fence, wall, or dense vegetation, unless the hive is on a porch or balcony at least 10 feet above grade and 5 feet from the line.