Beekeeping: Daly City vs San Mateo

Do I have to register my Daly City hives with the state?

Yes. Cal. Food & Agricultural Code §29040 requires every apiary owner, broker, or possessor in California to register annually with the county agricultural commissioner by January 1 (or within 30 days of becoming an owner). Registration includes colony count and apiary location. San Mateo County Department of Agriculture/Weights and Measures handles registration for Daly City beekeepers.

Is my registration information public?

No. Cal. Food & Ag Code §29041 makes apiary registration confidential and privileged. The county can only share location data with the California Department of Food and Agriculture, county ag departments, and licensed pesticide applicators (so they can avoid spraying near hives).

Can a neighbor force me to remove my hives?

Only if the hives create a documented nuisance - aggressive bees that sting people on adjoining property, swarms that won't disperse, or hives placed in a way that interferes with neighbors' use of their property. Daly City's nuisance provisions in Titles 6 and 8 authorize abatement, but a properly maintained, registered hive in a residential backyard is generally allowed.

Can I keep bees in my backyard in San Mateo?

The City of San Mateo does not have a specific beekeeping ordinance. Beekeeping in residential zones may be subject to nuisance provisions. Contact the Planning Division before installing hives.

What are the beekeeping regulations in San Mateo?

Specific Ordinance: None found. Nuisance Rules: Apply if bees disturb neighbors. State Registration: CDFA hive registration required. Contact: Planning (650) 522-7010.