King County, WA Animal Ordinances: Beekeeping (2026)
Key Facts
- Hive cap under 5 acres
- 50 beehives
- Hive cap on 5+ acres
- No limit
- Hive type required
- Movable-frame hives only
- Annual registration deadline
- Before April 1
- Applies in
- Unincorporated King County only
Summary
Unincorporated King County caps backyard beehives at fifty on lots under five acres, with no cap on larger parcels, and requires colonies in movable-frame hives.
Beekeeping is limited as follows: (1) Beehives are limited to fifty on sites less than five acres; (2) The number of beehives shall not be limited on sites of five acres or greater; (3) Colonies shall be maintained in movable-frame hives at all times; (6) All colonies shall be registered with the county extension agent before April 1 of each year, on a state registration form acceptable to the county;
Full Breakdown
King County Code § 21A.30.020.E.2.g regulates beekeeping as an accessory animal use. Sites under five acres are limited to fifty beehives; five acres or more, there is no hive limit. Colonies must stay in movable-frame hives, get adequate room to prevent swarming, and be requeened after swarming or aggressive behavior. Every colony must be registered with the county extension agent before April 1 each year on a state registration form. This applies only to unincorporated King County. Seattle, Bellevue, Kent, Renton, and the county's other 25-plus cities set their own beekeeping rules under their own municipal codes.
Violations & Fines
Abandoned colonies, diseased bees, or bees kept outside movable-frame hives (in trees, buildings, or elsewhere) are declared a public nuisance and are abated under K.C.C. chapter 21A.50.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many beehives can I keep in unincorporated King County?
Do I have to register my bees?
Does this rule apply inside Seattle or Bellevue?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in King County
Compare King County to another location·View the Washington animal ordinances overview
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