Beekeeping: Kent vs Seattle
How do beekeeping rules compare between Kent, WA and Seattle, WA?
Kent and Seattle have similar restriction levels.
Kent, WA
King County
Kent allows residential beekeeping as an accessory use with setbacks and hive-count limits. All apiaries in Washington must be registered with WSDA by April 1 each year under RCW 15.60.
View full Kent rules →Seattle, WA
King County
Beekeeping is permitted in Seattle. Max 4 hives on lots under 10,000 sq ft; 1 additional hive per 2,500 sq ft over 10,000 sq ft in commercial zones. Hives must be in movable-frame design. State registration with WA Dept. of Agriculture required by April 1 each year (RCW 15.60).
View full Seattle rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Kent | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Hive Limit | About 4 per residential lot | - |
| Setback | 25 feet typical | - |
| Flyway Barrier | 6 ft at 25 ft if closer | - |
| State Registration | WSDA by April 1 | WA Dept. of Agriculture by April 1 (RCW 15.60) |
| Code | - | SMC 23.44.048 / SMC 10.36.010 |
| Max Hives | - | 4 on lots < 10,000 sq ft |
| Hive Type | - | Movable-frame hives required |
| Nuisance Fine | - | Up to $100 for abandoned/unmanaged colonies |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Kent FAQ
Can I keep bees in my Kent backyard?
Yes, as an accessory residential use with 25-foot setbacks, a water source, and annual WSDA registration under RCW 15.60.
Do I need to register my hives in Washington?
Yes. WSDA requires every beekeeper to register hives annually by April 1 under RCW 15.60 and WAC 16-602.
Seattle FAQ
Can I keep bees in my backyard in Seattle?
Beekeeping is permitted in Seattle. Max 4 hives on lots under 10,000 sq ft; 1 additional hive per 2,500 sq ft over 10,000 sq ft in commercial zones. Hives must be in movable-frame design. State registration with WA Dept. of Agriculture required by April 1 each year (RCW 15.60).
What are the beekeeping regulations in Seattle?
Code: SMC 23.44.048 / SMC 10.36.010. Max Hives: 4 on lots < 10,000 sq ft. Hive Type: Movable-frame hives required. State Registration: WA Dept. of Agriculture by April 1 (RCW 15.60).
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