San Ramon, CA Animal Ordinances: Beekeeping (2026)

Beekeeping in San Ramon is permitted on residential lots subject to setback and colony limitations under the Municipal Code and Contra Costa County Agricultural regulations. Typical residential requirements: hives must be located in the rear yard only, minimum 10-foot setback from side and rear property lines (25 feet from front), with a 6-foot tall flyway barrier (fence or hedge) within 25 feet of the hive forcing bees to fly upward. Water source must be provided on the beekeeper's property to prevent bees from seeking neighbors' pools and birdbaths. Colony count is generally limited to 2-4 hives per typical residential lot (under 10,000 sq ft), with additional hives allowed on larger properties. Registration with the Contra Costa County Agricultural Commissioner is required under California Food and Agricultural Code §29040 — all apiaries (beekeeping operations) in California must register annually with the county of operation regardless of size. Registration supports pesticide notification, disease control, and the state's Africanized Honey Bee monitoring program. Beekeepers must manage Varroa mite infestations and notify the Agricultural Commissioner of suspected American Foulbrood outbreaks. Swarms must be promptly captured or reported. Under California law, commercial beekeepers must meet additional bulk registration and movement permit requirements. San Ramon's climate and extensive master-planned landscaping (including Dougherty Valley gardens, Central Park, and Bishop Ranch corporate plantings) provide rich forage. Pesticide notification rules require the county Ag Commissioner to inform registered beekeepers within 1 mile of pesticide applications. HOA CC&Rs in Dougherty Valley, Canyon Lakes, and other master-planned communities frequently prohibit or restrict beekeeping beyond city rules — check HOA rules before installing hives. Stinging incidents causing injury or nuisance conditions may result in abatement orders. California Fish and Game Code protects bumble bees and native pollinators.