The City of San Mateo does not have a specific beekeeping ordinance. Beekeeping in residential zones may be subject to nuisance provisions. Contact the Planning Division before installing hives.
San Mateo's municipal code does not specifically address beekeeping. Without an explicit ordinance, beekeeping may be treated as a residential accessory use, but nuisance rules apply if bees create disturbances or pose a threat to neighbors. California Department of Food and Agriculture requires hive registration for all beekeepers. Contact San Mateo Planning at (650) 522-7010 to confirm current standards before installing hives.
Unauthorized hives: removal order. Nuisance complaints: mediation then fines. Swarm incidents: emergency removal.
San Mateo, CA
San Mateo prohibits nuisance barking under the city's noise ordinance and animal control provisions. Owners must prevent habitual barking that disturbs neigh...
San Mateo, CA
San Mateo experiences aircraft noise from San Francisco International Airport (SFO), located approximately 3 miles north. The city cannot restrict FAA-contro...
San Mateo, CA
San Mateo regulates amplified sound under SMMC Section 7.30.080. Handheld amplified sound equipment cannot exceed 10 watts. All amplified sound must comply w...
San Mateo, CA
San Mateo limits permitted construction to 7 AM–7 PM weekdays, 9 AM–5 PM Saturdays, and noon–4 PM Sundays/holidays. Equipment cannot exceed 90 dB at 25 feet....
San Mateo, CA
San Mateo specifically regulates leaf blower operation under Chapter 10.80 in addition to the general noise ordinance. Leaf blowers must comply with both the...
San Mateo, CA
Fences up to 7 feet in San Mateo generally do not require a building permit if they comply with zoning regulations. Fences over 7 feet require a building per...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in San Mateo County.
See how other cities in San Mateo County handle beekeeping.
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