Beekeeping: Somerville vs Waltham
How do beekeeping rules compare between Somerville, MA and Waltham, MA?
Waltham has fewer restrictions than Somerville.
Somerville, MA
Middlesex County
Beekeeping is allowed in Somerville with Board of Health permitting and mandatory state registration under MGL Chapter 128 Section 31A, with hive setbacks and flyway barriers required.
View full Somerville rules →Waltham, MA
Middlesex County
Beekeeping is permitted in Waltham under state MDAR registration, with hive placement and setback standards for residential properties.
View full Waltham rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Somerville | Waltham |
|---|---|---|
| State registration | MGL c.128 s.31A (MDAR) | - |
| Local permit | Board of Health | - |
| Hive setback | 10 ft lot line | - |
| Flyway barrier | 6 ft if under 25 ft to homes | - |
| Water source | Required on property | - |
| State Registration | - | MDAR required annually |
| State Law | - | MGL c.128 s.31A |
| Setback | - | 10 ft from property line |
| Flyway Barrier | - | 6 ft fence or hedge |
| Water Source | - | Must provide on site |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Somerville FAQ
How many hives can I keep?
Somerville does not set a hard statewide cap, but the Board of Health reviews proposed hive counts against lot size and neighbor proximity.
Do I need neighbor approval?
Neighbor notice is typically part of the permit process; the Board of Health weighs concerns before issuing or renewing.
Waltham FAQ
Do I need a Waltham permit for hives?
No local permit, but annual MDAR registration is required.
How many hives can I keep?
No municipal cap, but nuisance standards apply to swarming.
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