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Campbell council adopts updated beekeeping ordinance after resident safety concerns
Summary
Council approved the second reading and adoption of an updated beekeeping ordinance following public comment about confidentiality of registered hives; councilmembers emphasized science‑based spacing and continued outreach to neighbors and beekeeping groups.
The council considered the second reading of a revised beekeeping ordinance (item 7.6) following public comment and staff review.
Resident Steve Saunders told the council he remained concerned about public‑safety and notification because registered beehive locations are confidential under state agricultural code, and he urged the city to require better neighbor notice. ‘‘Registered beehive locations are kept confidential per California food agricultural code division 13… and any information provided… shall be held confidential,’’ Saunders said.
Several councilmembers acknowledged allergy and safety concerns and said staff and community groups had tried to craft science‑based regulations covering spacing, fencing and best practices. Councilmember Scazzola moved to adopt the ordinance and Councilmember Lopez seconded. The roll call vote was unanimous in favor.
Councilmembers also asked that staff continue public outreach and education with beekeeping groups to encourage neighbor notification and safe practices.
The ordinance now adopted updates the municipal code to reflect current best practices and replaces an older ordinance that councilmembers described as outdated.
