Beekeeping: Arlington Heights vs Des Plaines
How do beekeeping rules compare between Arlington Heights, IL and Des Plaines, IL?
Arlington Heights and Des Plaines have similar restriction levels.
Arlington Heights, IL
Cook County
Arlington Heights permits beekeeping on residential property subject to conditions. The Village amended its ordinance to allow backyard beekeeping with restrictions on hive placement, number of colonies, and flyway barriers. Illinois does not prohibit residential beekeeping and the Illinois Department of Agriculture maintains a voluntary apiary registration program.
View full Arlington Heights rules →Des Plaines, IL
Cook County
No specific Des Plaines beekeeping ordinance identified. Illinois Bees and Apiaries Act (510 ILCS 20) requires state registration. Contact Des Plaines Planning at 847-391-5380 for zoning guidance.
View full Des Plaines rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Arlington Heights | Des Plaines |
|---|---|---|
| Beekeeping Allowed | Yes, with conditions | - |
| Hive Location | Rear yard only | - |
| Flyway Barrier | 6-foot barrier required | - |
| Water Source | Must be provided on-site | - |
| State Registration | Voluntary through IDOA | Required with IL State Apiarist |
| State Law | - | 510 ILCS 20 — Bees and Apiaries Act |
| Local Status | - | No specific ordinance — check zoning |
| Contact | - | Community & Economic Dev: 847-391-5380 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Arlington Heights FAQ
How many beehives can I have in Arlington Heights?
The number depends on your lot size. Smaller residential lots are typically limited to fewer colonies. Check with the Village for the specific limit that applies to your property.
Do I need my neighbors' permission to keep bees?
The ordinance does not require written neighbor consent, but notifying immediate neighbors is recommended as a courtesy. You must maintain a flyway barrier to minimize bee interaction with neighboring properties.
Do I need to register my hives?
Illinois offers voluntary apiary registration through the Department of Agriculture for disease monitoring purposes. Check with the Village for any local registration requirements.
Des Plaines FAQ
Can I keep bees in my backyard in Des Plaines?
No specific Des Plaines beekeeping ordinance identified. Illinois Bees and Apiaries Act (510 ILCS 20) requires state registration. Contact Des Plaines Planning at 847-391-5380 for zoning guidance.
What are the beekeeping regulations in Des Plaines?
State Law: 510 ILCS 20 — Bees and Apiaries Act. State Registration: Required with IL State Apiarist. Local Status: No specific ordinance — check zoning. Contact: Community & Economic Dev: 847-391-5380.
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