§ 9.14. Keeping of farm animals, chickens, and bees.  


Latest version.
  • A.

    Farm animals and chickens. Farm animals and chickens are only permitted on conforming lots in the AG zoning district. Operations shall be compliant with all applicable State of Michigan Generally Accepted Agricultural and Management Practices.

    B.

    Beekeeping. The intent of this section is to authorize residents to keep honey bees on residential property under certain conditions.

    1.

    Applicability. Honey bees may be kept on non-farm properties in the AG, R-1, and R-2 zoning districts, subject to the requirements of this section.

    2.

    General requirements.

    a.

    Hives must be set back ten feet from all property lines and at least 50 feet from any dwelling on a neighboring property.

    b.

    An adequate and constant source of water, as temperatures allow, shall be placed within 20 feet of the location of bee hives and shall be permanently maintained while actively beekeeping.

    c.

    Beekeeping operations shall be compliant with the State of Michigan Generally Accepted Agricultural and Management Practices for Beekeeping and Apiary Management. Beekeepers must be able to provide verification of compliance.