Beekeeping: Scottsdale vs Tempe
How do beekeeping rules compare between Scottsdale, AZ and Tempe, AZ?
Scottsdale and Tempe have similar restriction levels.
Scottsdale, AZ
Maricopa County
Scottsdale does not have a specific beekeeping ordinance. Beekeeping is addressed through general animal nuisance provisions in SRC Chapter 4, Sec. 4-17. The Arizona Department of Agriculture regulates beekeeping statewide. Africanized honey bees are a significant concern in the Scottsdale area.
View full Scottsdale rules →Tempe, AZ
Maricopa County
Tempe allows residential beekeeping with certain restrictions. Hives must maintain setbacks from property lines and neighboring structures. Water sources must be provided to prevent bees from seeking water on neighboring properties.
View full Tempe rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Scottsdale | Tempe |
|---|---|---|
| City Ordinance | No specific bee law | - |
| Nuisance Rule | SRC Sec. 4-17 applies | - |
| State Agency | AZ Dept of Agriculture | - |
| AHB Risk | Africanized bees present | - |
| Allowed | - | Yes, in residential zones |
| Setback | - | 10 feet from property lines recommended |
| Water Source | - | Must be provided near hives |
| Africanized Bees | - | Must be requeened |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Scottsdale FAQ
Can I keep bees in my backyard in Scottsdale?
Scottsdale does not have a specific beekeeping ordinance. Beekeeping is addressed through general animal nuisance provisions in SRC Chapter 4, Sec. 4-17. The Arizona Department of Agriculture regulates beekeeping statewide. Africanized honey bees are a significant concern in the Scottsdale area.
What are the beekeeping regulations in Scottsdale?
City Ordinance: No specific bee law. Nuisance Rule: SRC Sec. 4-17 applies. State Agency: AZ Dept of Agriculture. AHB Risk: Africanized bees present.
Tempe FAQ
Can I keep bees in Tempe?
Yes. Beekeeping is allowed in residential zones. Hives should be set back from property lines, and a water source must be provided to prevent bees from bothering neighbors.
What if my bees become aggressive?
Africanized or aggressive colonies must be requeened. Colonies creating a nuisance may be subject to abatement by county vector control.
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