Beekeeping: Compton vs Santa Monica
How do beekeeping rules compare between Compton, CA and Santa Monica, CA?
Compton and Santa Monica have similar restriction levels.
Compton, CA
Los Angeles County
Beekeeping in Compton is regulated under general animal control provisions and California state law. Bee colonies must not constitute a public nuisance. Registration with the LA County Agricultural Commissioner is required by state law.
View full Compton rules →Santa Monica, CA
Los Angeles County
Santa Monica Municipal Code Section 4.04.130 permits beekeeping on single-family residential property only, with a limit of two hives per property. Hives must be at least 5 feet from property lines and registered with the City's Animal Control Office. Requeening is required every two years.
View full Santa Monica rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Compton | Santa Monica |
|---|---|---|
| State Law | CA Food & Ag Code §29000 | - |
| Registration | LA County Agricultural Commissioner | City Animal Control Office |
| Nuisance Standard | Must not disturb neighbors | - |
| Animal Control | Compton Animal Center: (310) 605-5503 | - |
| Max Hives | - | 2 per property |
| Setback | - | 5 ft from property lines |
| Code | - | SMMC §4.04.130 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Compton FAQ
Is beekeeping allowed in Compton?
Beekeeping is not explicitly banned but must comply with nuisance standards and state registration requirements. Register hives annually with the LA County Agricultural Commissioner.
Where do I report bee problems in Compton?
Contact the Compton Animal Center at (310) 605-5503 for bee colony complaints, or the LA County Agricultural Commissioner for regulatory issues.
Santa Monica FAQ
Can I keep bees in Santa Monica?
Yes, but only on single-family residential property. You may have up to two hives, placed at least 5 feet from property lines with entrances facing away from neighbors. You must register with the City's Animal Control Office.
What are the ongoing requirements for beekeepers?
Requeening every two years, providing an on-site water source, managing hives to prevent swarming, and storing equipment in sealed containers. The City may inspect your apiary.
Compare other topics
See how Compton and Santa Monica compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool