Beekeeping: Auburn vs Seattle
How do beekeeping rules compare between Auburn, WA and Seattle, WA?
Auburn and Seattle 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 →Seattle, WA
King County
Beekeeping is permitted in Seattle. Max 4 hives on lots under 10,000 sq ft; 1 additional hive per 2,500 sq ft over 10,000 sq ft in commercial zones. Hives must be in movable-frame design. State registration with WA Dept. of Agriculture required by April 1 each year (RCW 15.60).
View full Seattle rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Auburn | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Setback | 10 ft rear and side | - |
| Location | Rear yard only | - |
| Flyway Barrier | 6 ft recommended | - |
| State Law | RCW 15.60 | - |
| Code | - | SMC 23.44.048 / SMC 10.36.010 |
| Max Hives | - | 4 on lots < 10,000 sq ft |
| Hive Type | - | Movable-frame hives required |
| State Registration | - | WA Dept. of Agriculture by April 1 (RCW 15.60) |
| Nuisance Fine | - | Up to $100 for abandoned/unmanaged colonies |
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.
Seattle FAQ
Can I keep bees in my backyard in Seattle?
Beekeeping is permitted in Seattle. Max 4 hives on lots under 10,000 sq ft; 1 additional hive per 2,500 sq ft over 10,000 sq ft in commercial zones. Hives must be in movable-frame design. State registration with WA Dept. of Agriculture required by April 1 each year (RCW 15.60).
What are the beekeeping regulations in Seattle?
Code: SMC 23.44.048 / SMC 10.36.010. Max Hives: 4 on lots < 10,000 sq ft. Hive Type: Movable-frame hives required. State Registration: WA Dept. of Agriculture by April 1 (RCW 15.60).
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