Beekeeping: Brentwood vs Martinez
How do beekeeping rules compare between Brentwood, CA and Martinez, CA?
Brentwood has fewer restrictions than Martinez.
Brentwood, CA
Contra Costa County
Beekeeping is permitted in Brentwood on agricultural and most residential lots, with hive setback requirements from property lines and registration with the Contra Costa County Agricultural Commissioner under California Food & Ag Code §29040. Brentwood's orchard agriculture makes beekeeping especially compatible.
View full Brentwood rules →Martinez, CA
Contra Costa County
Beekeeping is permitted on residential properties in Martinez with setback requirements — hives must be at least 10 feet from property lines and 25 feet from neighboring dwellings, or behind a six-foot flyway barrier. Registration with the Contra Costa County Agricultural Commissioner is required for all beekeepers. Hive numbers are limited based on lot size, typically two hives per 5,000 square feet.
View full Martinez rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Brentwood | Martinez |
|---|---|---|
| Ag zones | No hive limit | - |
| Residential limit | Typically 2-4 hives | - |
| Setback | 10-20 ft from property line | - |
| State registration | CCC Ag Commissioner (§29040) | - |
| Water source | Required on-property | - |
| - | - |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Brentwood FAQ
Do I have to tell my neighbors before keeping bees?
Brentwood does not require neighbor notification, but it's strongly recommended. You must register hives with the Contra Costa Agricultural Commissioner within 30 days under Food & Ag Code §29040.
How do I register hives?
Contact the Contra Costa County Agricultural Commissioner (Concord office) to file an annual apiary registration. The fee is nominal, and registration connects you to the state's pesticide-notification system.
Martinez FAQ
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