Beekeeping: Des Plaines vs Evanston
How do beekeeping rules compare between Des Plaines, IL and Evanston, IL?
Des Plaines and Evanston have similar restriction levels.
Des Plaines, IL
Cook County
No specific Des Plaines beekeeping ordinance identified. Illinois Bees and Apiaries Act (510 ILCS 20) requires state registration. Contact Des Plaines Planning at 847-391-5380 for zoning guidance.
View full Des Plaines rules →Evanston, IL
Cook County
Evanston permits residential beekeeping under Title 9 (Animals) of the City Code with registration and setback requirements. Beekeepers must register hives with the city and maintain them according to Illinois Department of Agriculture standards. Hives must be set back from property lines and a flyway barrier is required when hives are near neighboring yards.
View full Evanston rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Des Plaines | Evanston |
|---|---|---|
| State Law | 510 ILCS 20 — Bees and Apiaries Act | - |
| State Registration | Required with IL State Apiarist | Required under 510 ILCS 20 |
| Local Status | No specific ordinance — check zoning | - |
| Contact | Community & Economic Dev: 847-391-5380 | - |
| Allowed | - | Yes, with registration |
| Max Hives | - | 4 per residential lot |
| Setback | - | 10 ft from property lines |
| Flyway Barrier | - | 6 ft tall if within 25 ft of neighbor |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Des Plaines FAQ
Can I keep bees in my backyard in Des Plaines?
No specific Des Plaines beekeeping ordinance identified. Illinois Bees and Apiaries Act (510 ILCS 20) requires state registration. Contact Des Plaines Planning at 847-391-5380 for zoning guidance.
What are the beekeeping regulations in Des Plaines?
State Law: 510 ILCS 20 — Bees and Apiaries Act. State Registration: Required with IL State Apiarist. Local Status: No specific ordinance — check zoning. Contact: Community & Economic Dev: 847-391-5380.
Evanston FAQ
Do I need a permit to keep bees in Evanston?
You need to register your hives with the city and also register with the Illinois Department of Agriculture under the Bees and Apiaries Act. There is no separate beekeeping permit fee, but registration is mandatory.
How many hives can I have?
Residential lots are generally limited to 4 hives. Hives must be placed in the rear yard at least 10 feet from property lines, with a 6-foot flyway barrier if within 25 feet of a neighbor.
What if my neighbor complains about my bees?
The city may investigate complaints and issue a notice to comply. You may be required to install additional flyway barriers, provide an adequate water source, or reduce the number of hives. Aggressive colonies must be requeened immediately.
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