Beekeeping: Columbus vs Westerville
How do beekeeping rules compare between Columbus, OH and Westerville, OH?
Columbus and Westerville have similar restriction levels.
Columbus, OH
Franklin County
Beekeeping in unincorporated Franklin County is allowed subject to Ohio Department of Agriculture registration under ORC 909.02. All hives must be registered annually with the State Apiarist regardless of hive count. Township zoning may impose setbacks.
View full Columbus rules →Westerville, OH
Franklin County
Beekeeping is permitted in Westerville residential zones with registration required under Ohio Department of Agriculture rules (ORC 909). Hives must be set back from property lines and registered annually with the State Apiarist. Westerville zoning does not specifically prohibit residential beekeeping.
View full Westerville rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Columbus | Westerville |
|---|---|---|
| State Registration | ODA required annually | ODA annual, by June 1 |
| Deadline | June 1 each year | - |
| Cost | Free | Free |
| Typical Setback | 10 feet + flyway | - |
| Ag Exempt | 5+ acres per ORC 519.21 | - |
| State Law | - | ORC Ch. 909 |
| Local Ban | - | None |
| Setback | - | 10+ feet recommended |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Columbus FAQ
Who enforces this in Franklin County?
Franklin County code enforcement at (614) 525-3322 handles most complaints.
Who enforces this in Franklin County?
Franklin County code enforcement at (614) 525-3322 handles most complaints.
Westerville FAQ
Do I need a city permit to keep bees in Westerville?
No city permit required, but annual state registration with the Ohio Department of Agriculture is mandatory under ORC Chapter 909.
Who enforces this in Westerville?
Westerville code enforcement at (614) 901-6400 handles complaints.
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