Santa Ana authorizes backyard beekeeping under SAMC Sec. 5-7 on single-family residential properties and in the A-1 agricultural zone. No more than 2 hives are allowed on lots of 6,000 square feet or less. Africanized bees, wasps, hornets, and noxious insects are prohibited.
SAMC Sec. 5-7 was adopted to authorize backyard beekeeping while minimizing potential problems in populated areas. Beekeeping is permitted in the A-1 (General Agricultural) zoning district per Sec. 41-201.5(k) and on properties developed with a single-family residence. On residential lots of 6,000 square feet or less, no more than 2 hives may be maintained. The keeping of Africanized bees (Apis mellifera scutellata), wasps, hornets, and any other noxious insects is specifically prohibited. Beekeepers must manage hives to prevent swarming and maintain adequate water sources to minimize bee travel to neighboring properties. The ordinance aims to balance urban beekeeping benefits with neighborhood compatibility.
Keeping prohibited species (Africanized bees, wasps): citation and mandatory removal. Exceeding hive limits: code enforcement action. Bee nuisance complaints: investigation and potential abatement.
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