Beekeeping: Costa Mesa vs Orange
How do beekeeping rules compare between Costa Mesa, CA and Orange, CA?
Costa Mesa and Orange have similar restriction levels.
Costa Mesa, CA
Orange County
Costa Mesa requires a residential beekeeping permit for all domesticated hives. Hives must be at least 15 feet from property lines and 25 feet from neighboring residential buildings. The city has updated its beekeeping regulations to allow managed apiaries with permits.
View full Costa Mesa rules →Orange, CA
Orange County
The City of Orange regulates beekeeping under OMC Chapter 6.04 (Animal Regulations). Beekeeping is permitted in residential areas subject to hive placement, setback, and management requirements to prevent nuisance conditions.
View full Orange rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Costa Mesa | Orange |
|---|---|---|
| Permit Required | Yes — residential beekeeping permit | - |
| Property Line Setback | 15 feet minimum | - |
| Building Setback | 25 ft from neighboring residences | - |
| Water Source | On-site provision required | Required near hives |
| Contact | Animal Control — (714) 754-5311 | - |
| Allowed | - | Yes, with conditions |
| Nuisance Standard | - | Must not disturb neighbors |
| Code Section | - | OMC Chapter 6.04 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Costa Mesa FAQ
Can I keep bees in Costa Mesa?
Yes, with a residential beekeeping permit. Hives must be at least 15 feet from property lines and 25 feet from neighboring residential buildings.
How do I get a beekeeping permit?
Contact Costa Mesa Animal Control at (714) 754-5311 or the Planning Division for current permit requirements and application procedures.
Are there limits on the number of hives?
The number of hives may be limited based on lot size and proximity to neighbors. Check with the city for specific limits.
Orange FAQ
Can I keep bees in Orange?
Yes. Beekeeping is permitted subject to hive management and placement requirements that prevent nuisance conditions under OMC Chapter 6.04.
What if my bees bother my neighbors?
If bees create a nuisance, the city may require hive removal or relocation under code enforcement provisions.
Compare other topics
See how Costa Mesa and Orange 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