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HomeMy WebLinkAboutBeekeeping 041917Beekeeping Regulations (Section 7-20.230 of the Municipal Code) April 19, 2017 Background Saratoga’s current beekeeping regulations were adopted in 1994 and established guidelines that allow but do not promote or encourage beekeeping within the City. Some of the existing requirements are (but not limited to): •Hives located no closer than 500 feet of a residence, church, school, public building, corral or water area •Hives located no closer than 300 feet from any public road •Notice to be given to the City Manager within 5 days from the date of movement of the hive Proposed Ordinance Location -Apiaries shall only be located within the side or rear yards and no closer than 6’ from the property lines. If the apiary is located within 20’ from a property line, the entrance shall not face that property line. Height -The maximum height of the hives or other structures associated with the apiary shall not exceed 6’. Number of Hives -A maximum of three (3) hives per property within the zoning districts R-1-10,000, R-1-12,500, R-1- 15,000, and R-1-20,000. A maximum of four (4) hives per property within the R-1-40,000 zoning district and one (1) additional hive permitted for each ½ acre over two acres. Apiaries are not permitted in any zoning district not listed in this subsection (e). Flyway Barrier -If the apiary is located within twenty feet of a property line, either a flyway barrier shall be required or the entrance of the apiary shall not face a property line. Water supply -A water supply adequate in quantity for the apiary shall be provided and maintained. Compliance with laws -Any person maintaining an apiary on his/her property shall comply with all local, state and federal laws. Penalty -Violation of any of the provisions of this section is a misdemeanor and public nuisance subject to the penalties set forth in Chapter 3 of this Code in addition to any other remedies at law. Recommended Action Direct staff to place the ordinance (with proposed amendments)on the Consent Calendar for adoption at the next regular meeting of the City Council.