Beekeeping: Brentwood vs San Ramon
How do beekeeping rules compare between Brentwood, CA and San Ramon, CA?
Brentwood has fewer restrictions than San Ramon.
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 →San Ramon, CA
Contra Costa County
Backyard beekeeping is permitted in San Ramon with setback and hive limit restrictions. Typical requirements include minimum 10-25 foot setbacks from property lines, water source on property, and colony limits based on lot size. Registration with Contra Costa County Agricultural Commissioner is required under California Food & Ag Code §29040.
View full San Ramon rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Brentwood | San Ramon |
|---|---|---|
| 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.
San Ramon FAQ
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