Beekeeping: Fresno vs Selma
How do beekeeping rules compare between Fresno, CA and Selma, CA?
Selma has fewer restrictions than Fresno.
Fresno, CA
Fresno County
Fresno allows backyard beekeeping on single-family residential lots with up to two hives on lots under 10,000 square feet and four hives on larger lots. Hives must be set back 10 feet from property lines, with flyway barriers 6 feet tall if within 25 feet of neighbor property. Registration with the Fresno County Agricultural Commissioner is required annually.
View full Fresno rules →Selma, CA
Fresno County
Selma does not have a standalone beekeeping ordinance in its municipal code. Beekeeping on residential property is generally governed by Fresno County regulations and California Food and Agricultural Code provisions regarding apiaries, which require registration with the county agricultural commissioner.
View full Selma rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fresno | Selma |
|---|---|---|
| - | - | |
| City Ordinance | - | No specific beekeeping code |
| State Registration | - | Required with county ag commissioner |
| Governing Law | - | CA Food and Ag Code 29000+ |
| Nuisance Standard | - | General nuisance provisions apply |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Fresno FAQ
Can I keep bees in my Fresno backyard?
Yes, up to two hives on standard residential lots under 10,000 square feet. Hives must be 10 feet from property lines, and you must register with the Fresno County Agricultural Commissioner.
Do I need a permit for beekeeping in Fresno?
Not a city permit, but you must register your apiary annually with the Fresno County Agricultural Commissioner under California Food and Agriculture Code §29040.
Selma FAQ
Do I need a permit to keep bees in Selma?
Selma does not require a city permit for beekeeping. However, California law requires you to register your apiary with the Fresno County Agricultural Commissioner annually.
How many hives can I keep on my property in Selma?
Selma does not set a specific hive limit. However, hives must not create a nuisance for neighbors. State law and county regulations may impose additional requirements based on lot size and proximity to neighbors.
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