Is Domestic Beekeeping Legal?

Before anyone embarks on learning how to keep bees, the first step should be to check on their local legislation. In most countries, notably the UK and most of Europe, there are no restrictions on keeping bees whatsoever. The only time you are likely to find yourself in trouble is if you do not take sufficient steps to prevent your bees swarming and they then cause a nuisance with your neighbors.

In other countries (notably the U.S.), however, you may require a license. This is a very straightforward process and should not hinder your beekeeping ambitions. Individual city authorities may put some restrictions or conditions on how you keep your bees (see here for an example). Sadly, there are a few communities that have banned beekeeping altogether, but fortunately these are very much in the minority.

Learn more about how to keep bees.