Beekeeping is permitted in Seattle. Max 4 hives on lots under 10,000 sq ft; 1 additional hive per 2,500 sq ft over 10,000 sq ft in commercial zones. Hives must be in movable-frame design. State registration with WA Dept. of Agriculture required by April 1 each year (RCW 15.60).
SMC 23.44.048 (SF zones) and SMC 23.45.150 (MF zones): max 4 hives on lots under 10,000 sq ft. Commercial zones (SMC 23.47.026): same 4-hive limit with 1 additional per 2,500 sq ft over 10,000 sq ft. Each hive limited to 1 swarm. Hives must be in movable-frame design. Abandoned colonies, bees in trees/buildings are public nuisances (SMC 10.36.020) — fine up to $100. State apiary registration due April 1 per RCW 15.60.
Beehive nuisance violations: up to $100 fine (SMC 10.36.020).
Seattle, WA
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in King County.
See how other cities in King County handle beekeeping.
See how Seattle's beekeeping rules stack up against other locations.
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