Beekeeping: Martinez vs Walnut Creek
How do beekeeping rules compare between Martinez, CA and Walnut Creek, CA?
Martinez and Walnut Creek have similar restriction levels.
Martinez, CA
Contra Costa County
Beekeeping is permitted on residential properties in Martinez with setback requirements — hives must be at least 10 feet from property lines and 25 feet from neighboring dwellings, or behind a six-foot flyway barrier. Registration with the Contra Costa County Agricultural Commissioner is required for all beekeepers. Hive numbers are limited based on lot size, typically two hives per 5,000 square feet.
View full Martinez rules →Walnut Creek, CA
Contra Costa County
Residential beekeeping is permitted in Walnut Creek subject to hive setbacks from property lines and neighboring dwellings, limits on hive count per lot size, and the provision of a water source on the beekeeper's property to reduce conflicts with neighbors.
View full Walnut Creek rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Martinez | Walnut Creek |
|---|---|---|
| - | - | |
| Hive setback | - | 15-20 ft property line / 25 ft dwellings |
| Flyway barrier option | - | 6 ft solid fence/barrier |
| Typical max hives | - | 2 on lots under 10,000 sq ft |
| Water source | - | Required on beekeeper's property |
| County registration | - | Required (CA F&A Code 29040) |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Martinez FAQ
Walnut Creek FAQ
Do I need a permit to keep bees in Walnut Creek?
The city does not require a permit for compliant residential beekeeping, but you must register with the Contra Costa County Agricultural Commissioner under state law and meet setback, hive count, and water-source requirements.
What if my neighbor's bees are swarming my pool?
First notify the beekeeper — they are required to provide on-site water. If the situation persists, contact Code Enforcement; chronic lack of a water source or setback violations can result in citations.
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