Beekeeping: Fullerton vs Santa Ana
How do beekeeping rules compare between Fullerton, CA and Santa Ana, CA?
Fullerton and Santa Ana have similar restriction levels.
Fullerton, CA
Orange County
Fullerton regulates beekeeping under Municipal Code Chapter 6.24 (Animals) and zoning provisions. Beekeeping may be permitted on residential properties subject to hive placement, setback, and colony number restrictions. Bee swarm removal and nuisance complaints are handled by OC Animal Care and private pest control.
View full Fullerton rules →Santa Ana, CA
Orange County
Santa Ana authorizes backyard beekeeping under SAMC Sec. 5-7 on single-family residential properties and in the A-1 agricultural zone. No more than 2 hives are allowed on lots of 6,000 square feet or less. Africanized bees, wasps, hornets, and noxious insects are prohibited.
View full Santa Ana rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fullerton | Santa Ana |
|---|---|---|
| Beekeeping | Permitted with conditions | - |
| Hive Location | Rear yard, away from neighbors | - |
| Flyway Barrier | 6 feet tall recommended | - |
| Water Source | Must provide on property | - |
| OC Animal Care | (714) 935-6848 | - |
| Max Hives | - | 2 on lots ≤6,000 sq ft |
| Zones | - | A-1 and single-family residential |
| Prohibited | - | Africanized bees, wasps, hornets |
| Code Section | - | Sec. 5-7 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Fullerton FAQ
Can I keep bees in my backyard in Fullerton?
Beekeeping is permitted in Fullerton subject to conditions including hive placement in the rear yard, setbacks from property lines, and maintaining gentle bee stock. Contact Community Development at (714) 738-6837 for specific requirements for your property.
How many beehives can I have in Fullerton?
The number of hives depends on your zoning district and lot size. Contact Community Development for specific limits. You may also need to register with the Orange County Agricultural Commissioner.
Who do I call about a bee swarm in Fullerton?
For bee swarms on private property, contact a licensed beekeeper or pest control service for removal. For swarms on public property, contact the city's maintenance division. For nuisance situations, call OC Animal Care at (714) 935-6848.
Santa Ana FAQ
Can I keep bees in my backyard in Santa Ana?
Santa Ana authorizes backyard beekeeping under SAMC Sec. 5-7 on single-family residential properties and in the A-1 agricultural zone. No more than 2 hives are allowed on lots of 6,000 square feet or less. Africanized bees, wasps, hornets, and noxious insects are prohibited.
What are the beekeeping regulations in Santa Ana?
Max Hives: 2 on lots ≤6,000 sq ft. Zones: A-1 and single-family residential. Prohibited: Africanized bees, wasps, hornets. Code Section: Sec. 5-7.
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