Beekeeping: Auburn vs Redmond
How do beekeeping rules compare between Auburn, WA and Redmond, WA?
Redmond has fewer restrictions than Auburn.
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 →Redmond, WA
King County
Redmond allows residential beekeeping under RMC 21.08 with setback and hive density limits. Hives must be at least 25 feet from property lines and registered with WSDA under RCW 15.60.
View full Redmond rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Auburn | Redmond |
|---|---|---|
| Setback | 10 ft rear and side | 25 ft (10 ft with fence) |
| Location | Rear yard only | - |
| Flyway Barrier | 6 ft recommended | - |
| State Law | RCW 15.60 | - |
| Density | - | 4 hives under 10k sqft |
| WSDA Registration | - | Annual, required |
| Code | - | RMC 21.08 / RCW 15.60 |
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.
Redmond FAQ
Can I keep bees in Redmond?
Yes. Residential beekeeping is allowed with setback, density, and water-source rules under RMC 21.08. Annual WSDA registration is required.
How close to the property line can a hive be?
25 feet minimum, or 10 feet if a 6-foot solid fence or hedge is between the hive and the property line to force bees to fly above head height.
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