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Commission discusses draft beekeeping rules for single‑family yards; settles on setbacks and rear‑yard requirement
Summary
The Plan Commission reviewed model ordinances and tentatively supported a 20‑foot setback from property lines, rear‑yard placement only, a flyway barrier and a constant onsite water source; commissioners declined to require licenses or conditional‑use permits but asked staff to draft lot‑size‑based hive limits and definitions.
The Cottage Grove Plan Commission reopened discussion on a proposed zoning amendment to allow beekeeping in single‑family residential yards and reviewed ordinance approaches used by nearby municipalities. Staff described commonly adopted components: limits on the number of hives, setback requirements, hive size limits, a requirement for a water source on the property so bees do not seek neighbor pools or birdbaths, removable frames inside hive boxes, and a “flyway barrier” (fence or vegetation) to force bees to rise above pedestrian level before leaving the property.
Commissioners voiced personal concerns about allergies and neighbor safety while also noting the value of beekeeping for pollinators. Several members signaled support for these specific draft parameters: 20‑foot setbacks from property lines, rear‑yard placement only, a flyway barrier when hives are within 50 feet of a property line, and a constant supply of fresh water on the hive owner’s property. Commissioners opposed creating a new license or routine conditional‑use hearing as part of the ordinance but asked staff to add a scalable limit on hive counts tied to lot size (for example, fewer hives on smaller lots and more on larger lots), following models such as Stoughton and Middleton.
Commissioners asked staff to return with a draft ordinance that defines “hive,” sets setbacks and flyway/barrier language, specifies acceptable water‑source approaches, and includes a straightforward, lot‑size‑based table for permitted hive counts. Staff confirmed they will include a definition section and a cross‑check of examples from surrounding communities.
Why it matters: The proposed ordinance balances residents’ safety and property rights with agricultural/hobbyist beekeeping and pollinator protection. Clear setbacks and lot‑size limits aim to reduce neighbor conflicts while allowing small‑scale beekeeping.
Ending: Staff will draft ordinance language reflecting the commission’s direction and return it for the commission’s review and a future public hearing.
