No county-level beekeeping ordinance. State apiary inspection governed by MGL c. 128 §§32–36 (MDAR). Each city's Board of Health may restrict beekeeping. In dense urban Suffolk County, local restrictions are common.
Each municipality sets beekeeping rules through zoning. Boston Article 89 allows 2 hives per lot. All hives statewide must be registered with MDAR under MGL c. 128 Sections 32-36. Massachusetts does not preempt local beekeeping regulation. No county-level rules. This beekeeping rule under Suffolk County's animals ordinances applies to unincorporated areas of Suffolk County. For current statutory text, amendments, enforcement procedures, fines, appeal options, and any exemptions that may apply to your situation, contact Suffolk County code enforcement directly or consult the official Massachusetts municipal code library. Ordinances change periodically; always verify with local staff before relying on summary information.
Unregistered hives violate state law. Local zoning violations enforced by each city.
Suffolk County, MA
Amplified music in Suffolk County is regulated at the city level. Boston requires Entertainment Licenses from the Mayor's Office of Consumer Affairs & Licens...
Suffolk County, MA
Driveway rules in Suffolk County are set by each city. Boston requires a curb-cut permit from the Public Improvement Commission, and blocking a Boston sidewa...
Suffolk County, MA
Massachusetts has a spite fence statute (MGL c.49 §21) but no shared fence cost law. Each owner is responsible for their own fence.
Suffolk County, MA
Suffolk County may require vegetation management for fire safety. MA does not have a statewide defensible space mandate. Local property maintenance applies.
Suffolk County, MA
Suffolk County may have a tree warden per MGL c.87. Public shade trees are protected statewide - removal requires tree warden consent.
Suffolk County, MA
MA encourages native plant landscaping through MGL c. 132A (MA Environmental Policy Act) and MassDEP climate guidance. No state law forces or prohibits nativ...
See how Suffolk County's beekeeping rules stack up against other locations.
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