Beekeeping: Long Beach vs Santa Monica
How do beekeeping rules compare between Long Beach, CA and Santa Monica, CA?
Long Beach and Santa Monica have similar restriction levels.
Long Beach, CA
Los Angeles County
Beekeeping allowed in Long Beach. Up to 4 hives per property proposed standard. Hive placement subject to Health Department standards.
View full Long Beach rules →Santa Monica, CA
Los Angeles County
Santa Monica Municipal Code Section 4.04.130 permits beekeeping on single-family residential property only, with a limit of two hives per property. Hives must be at least 5 feet from property lines and registered with the City's Animal Control Office. Requeening is required every two years.
View full Santa Monica rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Long Beach | Santa Monica |
|---|---|---|
| Status | Allowed | - |
| Hive Limit | Up to 4 per property (proposed) | - |
| Oversight | Long Beach Health Department standards | - |
| State Law | No CA statewide preemption | - |
| Max Hives | - | 2 per property |
| Setback | - | 5 ft from property lines |
| Registration | - | City Animal Control Office |
| Code | - | SMMC §4.04.130 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Long Beach FAQ
Can I keep bees in my backyard in Long Beach?
Beekeeping allowed in Long Beach. Up to 4 hives per property proposed standard. Hive placement subject to Health Department standards.
What are the beekeeping regulations in Long Beach?
Status: Allowed. Hive Limit: Up to 4 per property (proposed). Oversight: Long Beach Health Department standards. State Law: No CA statewide preemption.
Santa Monica FAQ
Can I keep bees in Santa Monica?
Yes, but only on single-family residential property. You may have up to two hives, placed at least 5 feet from property lines with entrances facing away from neighbors. You must register with the City's Animal Control Office.
What are the ongoing requirements for beekeepers?
Requeening every two years, providing an on-site water source, managing hives to prevent swarming, and storing equipment in sealed containers. The City may inspect your apiary.
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