Convincing and HOA to allow backyard beekeeping - Ask Extension
Hello. I Live within the city limits of Centennial. The city allows backyard beekeeping, with hive number, size, setback and location limitations. H...
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Convincing and HOA to allow backyard beekeeping #874339
Asked June 23, 2024, 8:04 PM EDT
Hello. I Live within the city limits of Centennial. The city allows backyard beekeeping, with hive number, size, setback and location limitations. However, my HOA does not allow any backyard beekeeping. Do you have any advise or experience in requesting waivers or exemptions from HOAs that are more restrictive on beekeeping than is the city? Thank you for you time. John Maus. <personal data hidden>.<personal data hidden>
Arapahoe County Colorado
Expert Response
Hi John,
Unfortunately, I am not aware of any type of waiver or exemption that could override HOA regulations. Your best option is to educate the HOA on beekeeping.
There is still fear and misinformation around bees and other pollinators, so educating your HOA on beekeeping could help. Here are some pointers to consider:
If you have specific questions, or or if the HOA has specific concerns, please reach out! You could also attend one of the local beekeeping club meetings and ask if anyone else has had success in education their HOA. Beekeeping clubs and other resources are listed here.
Lisa
Lisa Mason
Horticulture Specialist, Entomologist
Colorado State University Extension, Arapahoe County
Unfortunately, I am not aware of any type of waiver or exemption that could override HOA regulations. Your best option is to educate the HOA on beekeeping.
There is still fear and misinformation around bees and other pollinators, so educating your HOA on beekeeping could help. Here are some pointers to consider:
- Over 90% of all insect stings in Colorado are from the western yellowjacket (not bees!). The "black and yellow insects" flying around BBQs, picnics, outdoor activities is almost always yellowjackets.
- When a honey bee stings, the bee dies afterwards. They can only sting once, so they prefer not to. Stings usually happen accidently when they are stepped on or pressed up against the skin. Stings can happen when a beekeeper is doing a hive inspection as well, so regulations such as fencing from neighbors is helpful. Wasps can sting more than once.
- Swarms happen but beekeepers can prevent swarms. When a hive swarms, they essentially outgrow their hive and look for a new home. They are very docile in this state, and not a sting risk unless provoked. Call the swarm hotline because beekeepers all over Colorado would like to collect the bees.
- Regulations like the City of Centennial has are helpful in keeping bees distanced from neighbors. If regulations are followed, the hives and bee activity won't be noticed.
- I do recommend beekeepers have a water source nearby. Sometimes, I receive calls/questions like "why do I have honey bees drinking from my hot tub?"
- Here are some other tips and facts around beekeeping that may help you educate your HOA: https://cals.cornell.edu/pollinator-network/beekeeping/beekeeping-basics
If you have specific questions, or or if the HOA has specific concerns, please reach out! You could also attend one of the local beekeeping club meetings and ask if anyone else has had success in education their HOA. Beekeeping clubs and other resources are listed here.
Lisa
Lisa Mason
Horticulture Specialist, Entomologist
Colorado State University Extension, Arapahoe County
