Beekeeping: New Rochelle vs White Plains
How do beekeeping rules compare between New Rochelle, NY and White Plains, NY?
New Rochelle and White Plains have similar restriction levels.
New Rochelle, NY
Westchester County
Beekeeping is permitted in New Rochelle subject to zoning. NY Agriculture & Markets Article 15 requires annual state registration of all hives. Local nuisance and setback rules apply.
View full New Rochelle rules →White Plains, NY
Westchester County
Beekeeping permitted in White Plains subject to zoning. NY Ag & Markets Article 15 requires annual state registration. Hives must be sited away from property lines and maintained responsibly.
View full White Plains rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | New Rochelle | White Plains |
|---|---|---|
| State Law | NY Ag & Markets Article 15 | Ag & Markets Art. 15 |
| Registration | Annual, NYSDAM | - |
| Local Code | Nuisance/zoning only | - |
| Zoning | Low-density residential | - |
| Allowed | - | Yes, with zoning compliance |
| State Registration | - | Annual, required |
| Setback | - | From property lines |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
New Rochelle FAQ
Do I need to register my bees?
Yes. NY Ag & Markets Article 15 (effective December 2021) requires all beekeepers to register hives annually with NYSDAM, regardless of colony size.
Can my neighbor complain about my hives?
Yes. If hives cause a nuisance (swarming, stinging incidents), New Rochelle code enforcement can investigate under general nuisance provisions.
White Plains FAQ
Do I need to register my bees in New York?
Yes. Since December 2021, all NY beekeepers must register annually with NYS Department of Agriculture & Markets, including colony count and county location.
Are backyard hives legal in White Plains?
Yes. Bees are treated as accessory to residential use. Hives must maintain reasonable setbacks from property lines and be responsibly maintained.
Can neighbors force removal of my beehives in White Plains?
Only if hives create a documented nuisance. Properly sited and maintained hives in compliance with Ag & Markets Article 15 are protected.
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