Beekeeping and raising chickens in Arapahoe County backyards has been approved unanimously by county commissioners.
The new rules, for unincorporated residential areas, are the result of a two-year, community-driven process, according to a county news release.
“No special licenses are required for backyard chickens or beekeeping,” the release said. The new regulations go into effect April 30.
“Residents on lot sizes of 1-acre or less can have two to eight beehive boxes, provided owners adhere to design and setback standards,” the release said. “Single family residential units also can have up to four hens in coops that meet design and setback standards. Owners must keep chickens in coops overnight, keep them on their property at all times, and control dust, debris and noise.”
Residents may need a building permit for certain improvements and must adhere to adopted regulations.
Some cities in the county already allow beehives and chickens. Homeowners associations can enact more restrictive policies than the county.
The public can and additional resources online.