Skokie does not have specific provisions permitting beekeeping in residential districts. Honeybee hives are generally treated as livestock and may not be kept in residential areas without special approval. The Illinois Bees and Apiaries Act governs hive registration statewide.
Skokie's animal and zoning codes do not include explicit provisions authorizing residential beekeeping, and the village does not maintain a beekeeping permit program like some neighboring communities. As a densely developed suburban village, Skokie generally treats honeybee hives as incompatible with residential zoning. Residents interested in beekeeping should contact Community Development at (847) 933-8235 to confirm current policy before establishing hives. Illinois state law (505 ILCS 15/) requires all apiaries (colonies of bees) to be registered with the Illinois Department of Agriculture regardless of local rules. Violations of nuisance or animal control provisions may result from complaints about bees on neighboring properties. Wild honeybee swarms should be reported to Skokie Police non-emergency line for removal by licensed beekeepers.
Unauthorized beekeeping may result in orders to remove hives, fines of $75 to $500, and daily accrual for continued violations. Property owners may face civil liability for bee-related injuries to neighbors or passersby.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Cook County.
See how other cities in Cook County handle beekeeping.
See how Skokie's beekeeping rules stack up against other locations.
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