Evelyn Moore
Beekeeping is a hobby of many people and surely some of them would like to experience it at their own backyard. Is it legal? It depends where you want to keep bees. In some states, it's allowed and legal while in some areas you won't be able to do it. Some cities don't allow beekeeping in certain areas but there are also other locations where you can practice beekeeping with permit or license. Bees are very important to our environment, and that is one of the reasons why people would like to keep them in their yard. In this article, you will find the most important things about beekeeping on your property.
Can it be dangerous and what do I need for beekeeping?
It's safe to have a beehive in your backyard. Many beekeepers have them in the yard and those who live in cities keep them usually on rooftops. It's recommended to have just two or three hives for beginners. You need to consider some kind of a small water garden because bees, especially honey bees need to collect water during spring and summer. To prevent them to go outside of your yard find your own water source. Be careful and remember that bees will need something to land on to keep them from drowning. A birth bath will a small rock can be perfect for that. Make sure that the water source is at least 20 feet away from the bee's hive.
One of the most important things is the fence. Your fence should be at least six feet high to avoid encounters between your bees and people passing by your house. Also, a higher fence provides wind protection.
When we talk about the swarm, it's something you can't control completely. When bees swarm they create a cluster within 100 feet away from their old hive. All you can do is ''bait hive'' to prevent them from swarming into the neighbor's yard. For that, you can use an old hive body and put it in a shady place where bees have lived before.
Do I need a permit to keep bees and where to keep them?
It depends on where you live. In most states beekeeping is legal, some of them put a limit on number of hives you can have. Every city has its own rule, so we suggest you check everything with your local laws. It's not that simple and the whole beekeeping thing depends on lots of different factors.
Beekeeping is your new hobby maybe but there is a lot to learn along the way. One of the main things is to understand the bee's flight. Bees can fly miles away from their hives, they have their own routine just like any other animals. Don't place hives too close to your home. The first reason why they should be away is so they can gain altitude and fly in the same direction. Also, keeping bees to close can be an invitation for them to visit you in search of food because they tend to be lazy and the first source of food will be your home. Keep in mind neighbors too, some of them won't like the idea you having bees. Placing your hives in the right place is very important and thinks twice before your decision.
Final thoughts
To sum up, keeping bees depend on your location and local laws. Make sure to check everything with local authorities before any action. Beekeeping is a responsible hobby and take care of other people and their properties while doing it. Place your hives in a place where they won't bother anyone and enjoy it.
