Santa Barbara County may relax rules for residential beekeeping.

Santa Barbara County is contemplating reducing restrictions on backyard beehives in unincorporated areas. County supervisors have instructed staff to propose modifications regarding hive placements, setbacks, and registration processes, with recommendations expected in six months.

Currently, beehives must be located at least 300 feet from property lines and 600 feet from neighboring homes unless permission is granted. The county does not routinely inspect properties for beehives, with enforcement typically initiated upon receiving a complaint. Proposed changes could facilitate beekeeping in residential zones for local beekeepers and rescue operators.