Beekeeping: Gresham vs Portland
How do beekeeping rules compare between Gresham, OR and Portland, OR?
Gresham has fewer restrictions than Portland.
Gresham, OR
Multnomah County
Beekeeping is allowed in Gresham on residential properties. Oregon law supports backyard beekeeping. Hives should be positioned with consideration for neighbors.
View full Gresham rules →Portland, OR
Multnomah County
Portland allows beekeeping on residential property without a permit under Title 13 (amended 2020). Beekeepers must notify neighbors within 150 feet, register with Oregon Department of Agriculture (5+ hives), maintain a 6-foot flyaway barrier within 10 feet of property lines, and follow OSU Extension best practices.
View full Portland rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Gresham | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Status | Allowed | - |
| Registration | Register with Oregon Dept of Agriculture | - |
| Placement | Away from property lines and traffic areas | - |
| Water | Provide on-site water source | - |
| Permit Required | - | No permit — but must comply with Title 13 Chapter 13.30 |
| Neighbor Notification | - | Written notice to all owners within 150 feet before installation |
| Flyaway Barrier | - | 6-foot barrier required if hives within 10 feet of property line |
| ODA Registration | - | Required for 5+ hives |
| Code | - | PCC Chapter 13.30 (amended Ord. 190086, eff. Sept 4 2020) |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Gresham FAQ
Can I keep bees in Gresham, Oregon?
Yes. Backyard beekeeping is allowed. Register hives with the Oregon Department of Agriculture and provide a water source.
Are there hive limits in Gresham?
There are no specific hive limits, but maintain only what the area can reasonably support and consider neighbors.
Portland FAQ
Can I keep bees in my backyard in Portland?
Portland allows beekeeping on residential property without a permit under Title 13 (amended 2020). Beekeepers must notify neighbors within 150 feet, register with Oregon Department of Agriculture (5+ hives), maintain a 6-foot flyaway barrier within 10 feet of property lines, and follow OSU...
What are the beekeeping regulations in Portland?
Permit Required: No permit — but must comply with Title 13 Chapter 13.30. Neighbor Notification: Written notice to all owners within 150 feet before installation. Flyaway Barrier: 6-foot barrier required if hives within 10 feet of property line. ODA Registration: Required for 5+ hives.
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