Can I have a beehive in my backyard? For Beekeeping in Ontario any person who owns or is in possession of honey bees or used beekeeping equipment requires a valid certificate of registration from OMAFRA’s Apiary Program.

Basically, when you obtain honey bees you must register your bees and list your name and address where the bees will be located. This is how a bee inspector will be able to find your hives if it becomes necessary due to a complaint or if you your bees are diseased and you need the services of a bee inspector to help diagnose & confirm the problem. The bee inspectors are very helpful and in many cases will be able to help you with an action plan to help improve your apiary’s health.

It is also important that they know where the beehives are in the event there is an outbreak of American Foul Brood disease which is very contagious. Sometimes you may find a sticker on your hive saving “good” which means your hives are in good order but most times you only see the bee inspector if you call them due to a problem.

Although there may be no by law per say in your area, if you are in a residential area in close proximity to your neighbor’s, we recommend that you speak with your neighbor’s to see how they feel about you having beehives in your backyard. If the OMAFRA gets a complaint you will be forced to move your hives. We do need to be mindful that some people do have a bad allergic reaction to bee stings.

If you have any questions about Beekeeping in Ontario give use a call at 1-800-945-8483 or sales@ophbeekeepingsupplies.com.