New York City Beekeeping Regulations

[!WARNING] This is a summary of local laws. Always verify with the NYC Department of Health before setting up your apiary.

New York City legalized urban beekeeping in 2010. Regulated by the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) under Article 161 of the NYC Health Code, the law ensures bees are kept safely without disturbing the public.

Registration Requirements

Under NYC Health Code §161.01(b)(12), all beekeepers in NYC must register their hives.

• Initial Registration: Must register within 30 days of establishing a hive.
• Annual Renewal: Required by May 31 each year.
• Cost: Registration is free.
• Update Obligation: Changes to contact info or hive location must be reported within 10 business days.

Process: Submit the online form via NYC DOHMH. Beekeepers are also encouraged to register with the NYS Department of Agriculture.

Hive Placement and Setbacks

NYC does not impose a fixed setback distance, but strict nuisance laws apply.

“Hives must be located so that the movement of bees does not become a nuisance to occupants of nearby property, pedestrians or the general public.” (NYC Health Code §161.01(b)(12))

Best Practice Guidelines:

• 5 feet minimum from property lines.
• 10 feet from public sidewalks.
• If close to a neighbor: install a 6-foot high solid barrier (flyway barrier) to force bee flight upward.
• Avoid facing entrances toward windows or doors.

Water Provision Requirement

You must provide a constant and adequate water source for your bees.

“Beekeepers shall provide a constant and adequate source of water on their property for their bees.”

Failure to provide water can cause bees to visit neighboring pools or AC units, triggering nuisance complaints and fines.

Nuisance Clause and Complaints

The NYC Health Code defines a nuisance as any condition posing a risk to health or comfort.

What constitutes a nuisance:

• Frequent stinging incidents.
• Swarms in public/private areas.
• Aggressive colonies.
• Poorly maintained hives.

Response: Beekeepers must respond immediately to control swarms or aggressive behavior. Failure to abate a nuisance can result in fines or forced hive removal.

Residents can file complaints via 311.

Enforcement and Penalties

Violations of Article 161 may result in:

• Fines issued by DOHMH.
• Administrative hearings (OATH).
• Mandated hive removal.

Additional Resources

• New York City Beekeepers Association (NYCBA): https://www.bees.nyc
• Swarm Response: Call 911 for large swarms in public spaces (NYPD Bee Unit).