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Commission approves small rezone to allow beekeeping, honey sales on Jersey Walnut Grove Road
Summary
The county approved a 2.58‑acre rezoning from R‑1 to A to allow beekeeping and retail of bees and honey; the applicant said he expects substantial honey production and will mentor other beekeepers.
Walton County commissioners unanimously approved a rezoning of 2.58 acres at 4878 Jersey Walnut Grove Road (near Old Highway 81) from R‑1 to A zoning to allow beekeeping and selling bees and honey.
Applicant Billy Farmer, who identified himself as a beekeeper and president of the Walton County Bee Association, told the commission he raises and grafts hives, plans to produce “800 to a thousand pounds of honey this year,” and sells bees and honey to individuals. He also said he mentors other beekeepers and invited interested residents to the Walton County Bee Association monthly meeting.
The planning commission recommended approval with the standard practice of limiting the A zoning request to the stated use (beekeeping) rather than a broad agricultural zoning. A neighbor, Michelle Alderman, spoke in favor and described the care required to raise bees.
The board opened a public hearing, heard support, and recorded a unanimous approval.
