Beekeeping: Evanston vs Tinley Park
How do beekeeping rules compare between Evanston, IL and Tinley Park, IL?
Evanston has fewer restrictions than Tinley Park.
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 →Tinley Park, IL
Cook County
Beekeeping is prohibited in Tinley Park under Section 91.14. It is unlawful to keep or harbor bees, wasps, hornets, or similar insects within the Village. This prohibition was most recently amended by Ordinance 2024-O-060.
View full Tinley Park rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Evanston | Tinley Park |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| State Registration | Required under 510 ILCS 20 | - |
| Code Section | - | Section 91.14 |
| Beekeeping | - | Prohibited |
| Latest Amendment | - | Ord. 2024-O-060 |
| Max Fine | - | $750 per offense |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
Tinley Park FAQ
Can I keep bees in Tinley Park?
No. Beekeeping is prohibited under Section 91.14. It is unlawful to keep or harbor bees, wasps, or hornets within the Village.
Has Tinley Park ever considered allowing beekeeping?
The section has been amended twice (2017 and 2024), but the prohibition on beekeeping remains in effect as of the most recent amendment.
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