New Beekeeping Ordinance In Coon Rapids

Last summer, the City of Coon Rapids completed a two year study on honey bees and what it takes to keep and maintain a healthy hive. That led the City Council to adopt a beekeeping ordinance in November.

"I think beekeeping will be a good addition to the City of Coon Rapids and we are committed to making sure that this is rolled out in an organized and safe way for all of our residents," Sustainability Planner Olivia Dorow Hovland said.

Many pollinators – like bees – are in danger. Allowing beekeeping in Coon Rapids is a way to support honeybees so they continue to pollinate and produce the plants and foods we all depend on. The permit process will open later this month here: www.coonrapidsmn.gov/Beekeeping.

"All that anyone who's interested has to do is apply for a permit through the City and go through the inspection process and get the approval from us," Dorow Hovland said.

There will be a one-time permit fee of $115 for residents to get started. And a key requirement will be proof of beekeeping coursework, which can be taken in-person or online.

"The University of Minnesota Bee Lab has a great course as does the University of Pennsylvania," Dorow Hovland said.

And there will be setback requirements as well.

"If any hive is located closer than 25 feet to any property line, the beekeeper has to erect a flyway barrier to make sure that the bees are being dispersed above head level and won't interfere with any neighbors or people walking by," Dorow Hovland said.

The ordinance aims to keep beekeeping safe for all residents.

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SOURCE: CTN