Beekeeping: Cornelius vs Matthews
How do beekeeping rules compare between Cornelius, NC and Matthews, NC?
Cornelius and Matthews have similar restriction levels.
Cornelius, NC
Mecklenburg County
Beekeeping is permitted in Cornelius residential zones with setback requirements. Hives must be at least 10 feet from property lines and behind a 6-foot flyway barrier if within 25 feet of a neighbor. Registration with NC Department of Agriculture recommended.
View full Cornelius 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 | Cornelius | Matthews |
|---|---|---|
| State Preemption | GS 106-635 protects 5 or fewer hives | - |
| Setback | 10 ft property line | 10 to 25 ft typical |
| Flyway Barrier | 6 ft if within 25 ft of neighbor | - |
| Registration | NCDA&CS voluntary, 10 dollars | NCDA voluntary |
| HOA Rules | May restrict despite state law | - |
| Permitted | - | Residential zones |
| Flyway | - | 6 ft barrier |
| HOA | - | May restrict |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Cornelius FAQ
Can I keep bees in my backyard in Cornelius?
Yes, protected by NC GS 106-635 (NC Bee and Honey Act). Cornelius cannot ban 5 or fewer hives. NCDA&CS regulates. HOAs in lakefront communities may still restrict via CC&Rs.
What are the beekeeping regulations in Cornelius?
State preemption: GS 106-635 protects 5 or fewer hives from local ban. Setbacks: 10 ft property line, 6-ft flyway if within 25 ft of neighbor. Regulation: NCDA&CS. HOAs: may restrict via CC&Rs.
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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