Beekeeping: Boston vs Chelsea
How do beekeeping rules compare between Boston, MA and Chelsea, MA?
Boston and Chelsea have similar restriction levels.
Boston, MA
Suffolk County
Boston allows up to 2 beehives per lot for personal use under Article 89, with setback and height restrictions. All hives must be registered with the MA Department of Agricultural Resources.
View full Boston rules →Chelsea, MA
Suffolk County
Beekeeping in Massachusetts governed by MGL c. 128 §§32–36 (state apiary inspection by Dept of Agricultural Resources). Chelsea's dense urban character means local Board of Health or zoning restrictions may apply. No specific Chelsea beekeeping ordinance found publicly.
View full Chelsea rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Boston | Chelsea |
|---|---|---|
| Max Hives | 2 per lot (personal) | - |
| Urban Farm | 3 hives allowed | - |
| Registration | MDAR required | State MDAR inspection program |
| Neighbor Consent | If within 20 ft | - |
| State Law | - | MGL c. 128 §§32–36 (apiary inspection) |
| Local Rules | - | Board of Health may restrict in dense areas |
| Contact | - | Chelsea Board of Health for local rules |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Boston FAQ
Can I keep bees in my backyard in Boston?
Boston allows up to 2 beehives per lot for personal use under Article 89, with setback and height restrictions. All hives must be registered with the MA Department of Agricultural Resources.
What are the beekeeping regulations in Boston?
Max Hives: 2 per lot (personal). Urban Farm: 3 hives allowed. Registration: MDAR required. Neighbor Consent: If within 20 ft.
Chelsea FAQ
Can I keep bees in my backyard in Chelsea?
Beekeeping in Massachusetts governed by MGL c. 128 §§32–36 (state apiary inspection by Dept of Agricultural Resources). Chelsea's dense urban character means local Board of Health or zoning restrictions may apply. No specific Chelsea beekeeping ordinance found publicly.
What are the beekeeping regulations in Chelsea?
State Law: MGL c. 128 §§32–36 (apiary inspection). Local Rules: Board of Health may restrict in dense areas. Registration: State MDAR inspection program. Contact: Chelsea Board of Health for local rules.
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