San Jose, CA Animal Ordinances: Beekeeping (2026)

Unincorporated Santa Clara County does not have a stand-alone beekeeping ordinance with hive limits or fixed setback distances. The County Zoning Ordinance lists 'apiaries' within the definition of 'Agriculture,' alongside aviaries, worm farms, and similar activities, meaning beekeeping is permitted where the Agriculture use is allowed by a parcel's zoning district. Because beekeeping falls under Agriculture rather than the County animal code (Division B31), the number of hives and their placement are governed by the applicable zoning district standards and general nuisance rules rather than a specific bee chapter. Statewide, California Food and Agricultural Code Sections 29040 et seq. require beekeepers to register the location of their apiaries annually with the County Agricultural Commissioner, and the Commissioner administers bee-related programs (such as notification and abatement of abandoned or nuisance hives) for the county. Beekeepers should confirm their parcel's zoning, register apiaries with the Santa Clara County Division of Agriculture, and keep colonies from becoming a nuisance to neighbors. Always verify current requirements with the County Planning Office and Agricultural Commissioner before placing hives, especially on smaller residential lots.