Beekeeping: Fitchburg vs Webster
How do beekeeping rules compare between Fitchburg, MA and Webster, MA?
Webster has fewer restrictions than Fitchburg.
Fitchburg, MA
Worcester County
MGL c. 128, §§32–36 governs apiary inspection by MA Dept of Agricultural Resources. No statewide ban on urban beekeeping. Fitchburg local rules may apply under zoning; check with Building/Zoning Department.
View full Fitchburg rules →Webster, MA
Worcester County
Beekeeping is regulated at the state level by MGL c. 128, §§35–40 and by the MA Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR). Hives must be registered with MDAR. Local bylaws may add setback requirements.
View full Webster rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fitchburg | Webster |
|---|---|---|
| State Law | MGL c. 128, §§32–36 | MGL c. 128, §§35–40 |
| Registration | MA Dept of Agr. Resources | MDAR — mass.gov/agr |
| Local Rules | Check Fitchburg zoning | Each city/town may add setbacks |
| Contact | Fitchburg Building/Zoning Dept. | - |
| County Code | - | None — county abolished 1998 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Fitchburg FAQ
Can I keep bees in my backyard in Fitchburg?
MGL c. 128, §§32–36 governs apiary inspection by MA Dept of Agricultural Resources. No statewide ban on urban beekeeping. Fitchburg local rules may apply under zoning; check with Building/Zoning Department.
What are the beekeeping regulations in Fitchburg?
State Law: MGL c. 128, §§32–36. Registration: MA Dept of Agr. Resources. Local Rules: Check Fitchburg zoning. Contact: Fitchburg Building/Zoning Dept..
Webster FAQ
Can I keep bees in my backyard in Worcester County?
Beekeeping is regulated at the state level by MGL c. 128, §§35–40 and by the MA Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR). Hives must be registered with MDAR. Local bylaws may add setback requirements.
What are the beekeeping regulations in Worcester County?
State Law: MGL c. 128, §§35–40. Registration: MDAR — mass.gov/agr. County Code: None — county abolished 1998. Local Rules: Each city/town may add setbacks.
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