Beekeeping: Charlotte vs Matthews
How do beekeeping rules compare between Charlotte, NC and Matthews, NC?
Charlotte has fewer restrictions than Matthews.
Charlotte, NC
Mecklenburg County
Beekeeping in Charlotte is protected by GS §106-635 et seq. (NC Bee and Honey Act). State law prohibits local governments from banning 5 or fewer hives. Charlotte cannot ban beekeeping. NC Dept of Agriculture regulates; $10 pesticide notification registration available.
View full Charlotte rules →Matthews, NC
Mecklenburg County
Beekeeping is permitted in Matthews residential zones subject to setback requirements in the UDO, with registration encouraged through the NC Department of Agriculture apiary inspection program.
View full Matthews rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Charlotte | Matthews |
|---|---|---|
| State Preemption | GS §106-635 — 5 or fewer hives protected | - |
| Local Ban | Prohibited by state law | - |
| Regulation | NC Dept of Agriculture | - |
| Pesticide Notice | $10 registration fee | - |
| HOAs | May still restrict via CC&Rs | - |
| Permitted | - | Residential zones |
| Setback | - | 10 to 25 ft typical |
| Flyway | - | 6 ft barrier |
| Registration | - | NCDA voluntary |
| HOA | - | May restrict |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Charlotte FAQ
Can I keep bees in my backyard in Charlotte?
Beekeeping in Charlotte is protected by GS §106-635 et seq. (NC Bee and Honey Act). State law prohibits local governments from banning 5 or fewer hives. Charlotte cannot ban beekeeping. NC Dept of Agriculture regulates; $10 pesticide notification registration available.
What are the beekeeping regulations in Charlotte?
State Preemption: GS §106-635 — 5 or fewer hives protected. Local Ban: Prohibited by state law. Regulation: NC Dept of Agriculture. Pesticide Notice: $10 registration fee.
Matthews FAQ
Can I keep bees in my backyard in Matthews?
Beekeeping protected by NC GS §106-635. Matthews cannot ban 5 or fewer hives. NC Dept of Agriculture regulates. Annual permit through Matthews Animal Control may apply to apiaries (verify with town). HOAs may restrict via CC&Rs.
What are the beekeeping regulations in Matthews?
State Preemption: GS §106-635 — 5 or fewer hives protected. Local Ban: Prohibited by state law. Regulation: NC Dept of Agriculture. Local Check: Verify with Matthews Animal Control re: permits.
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