Beekeeping: Auburn vs Kent
How do beekeeping rules compare between Auburn, WA and Kent, WA?
Auburn and Kent have similar restriction levels.
Auburn, WA
King County
Auburn allows honeybee hives as permitted animals under ACC 18.31.220 with rear yard placement. Hives must sit 10 feet from property lines. State apiarist rules under RCW 15.60 apply.
View full Auburn rules →Kent, WA
King County
Kent allows residential beekeeping as an accessory use with setbacks and hive-count limits. All apiaries in Washington must be registered with WSDA by April 1 each year under RCW 15.60.
View full Kent rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Auburn | Kent |
|---|---|---|
| Setback | 10 ft rear and side | 25 feet typical |
| Location | Rear yard only | - |
| Flyway Barrier | 6 ft recommended | 6 ft at 25 ft if closer |
| State Law | RCW 15.60 | - |
| Hive Limit | - | About 4 per residential lot |
| State Registration | - | WSDA by April 1 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Auburn FAQ
Do I need a permit for beehives in Auburn?
Not from the city, but state apiarist registration under RCW 15.60 is recommended. Hives must meet the 10-foot rear-yard setback of ACC 18.31.220.
How many hives can I have on a city lot in Auburn?
Auburn does not set a numeric limit in ACC 18.31.220. Best practice limits 2-4 hives per residential lot; HOAs may be more restrictive.
Kent FAQ
Can I keep bees in my Kent backyard?
Yes, as an accessory residential use with 25-foot setbacks, a water source, and annual WSDA registration under RCW 15.60.
Do I need to register my hives in Washington?
Yes. WSDA requires every beekeeper to register hives annually by April 1 under RCW 15.60 and WAC 16-602.
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