Beekeeping: McKeesport vs Penn Hills
How do beekeeping rules compare between McKeesport, PA and Penn Hills, PA?
McKeesport and Penn Hills have similar restriction levels.
McKeesport, PA
Allegheny County
Beekeeping legal under PA Bee Law 3 Pa.C.S. Ch. 21 with annual registration through PA Department of Agriculture. McKeesport zoning may restrict hive placement in dense residential areas.
View full McKeesport rules →Penn Hills, PA
Allegheny County
Beekeeping allowed in Penn Hills residential zones subject to setbacks and the state PA Bee Law (3 Pa.C.S. Ch. 21). All apiaries must register annually with PA Department of Agriculture.
View full Penn Hills rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | McKeesport | Penn Hills |
|---|---|---|
| State Law | 3 Pa.C.S. Chapter 21 | - |
| Registration | PDA — annual | - |
| Fee | $10 per 2-year cycle | - |
| Setback | 10 ft from lot line (best practice) | - |
| Barrier | 6 ft if entrance faces neighbor | - |
| State Registration | - | PDA annual, free |
| Typical Setback | - | 10 ft from property line |
| Flyway Barrier | - | 6 ft if closer to line |
| Water Source | - | Required on-site |
| Statute | - | 3 P.S. 2101 et seq. |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
McKeesport FAQ
Can I keep bees in my McKeesport backyard?
Yes. McKeesport has no ordinance prohibiting beekeeping. Register your apiary annually with the PA Department of Agriculture, maintain 10-foot setbacks, and use a 6-foot flyway barrier if entrances face a neighbor's yard.
How do I register a hive in Pennsylvania?
Submit Apiary Registration Form (REG-001) to PA Department of Agriculture Bureau of Plant Industry with a $10 fee per location for a 2-year registration. Renewal notices are mailed before expiration.
Penn Hills FAQ
Can I keep bees in my backyard in Penn Hills?
Yes, subject to setbacks. Pennsylvania requires annual PA Department of Agriculture registration (free) under 3 P.S. 2101. Penn Hills setback practice: 10 ft from lot lines, with a 6-ft flyway barrier if hives sit closer than about 25 ft.
What are the beekeeping regulations in Penn Hills?
State: Annual PDA registration (3 P.S. 2101) plus disease inspections. Local: Zoning setbacks and nuisance rules apply — no statewide preemption. Violations up to $1,000 fine plus possible hive removal.
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