Council amends bylaw to allow urban beekeeping in Lacombe

Jun 29, 2021 | 11:07 AM

In response to community inquiries, Lacombe city council has amended the Responsible Animal Ownership Bylaw to allow for urban beekeeping within the City of Lacombe.

City officials note the Responsible Animal Ownership Bylaw has been in effect for two years. During that time, Bylaw Enforcement received several inquiries regarding urban beekeeping and subsequently researched the proper process of allowing Apiculturists (beekeepers) in the City.

“Bees are an important and vital part of Lacombe’s ecosystem,” says Mayor Grant Creasey, in a press release. “This bylaw amendment allows our residents to safely and responsibly maintain bee populations in our community while also providing the opportunity to produce honey for their personal use.”

Officials say urban apiaries are governed under provincial regulations through the Bee Act. The City’s proposed bylaw states a prospective beekeeper must register with the Province of Alberta to attain a Property ID number and attend a beekeeping training program. There are also stipulations about creating disease and swarm control plans.

The City will require a licence for urban apiaries, and the application process will require approval by 50 per cent of the neighbouring properties and an inspection by Bylaw Enforcement Staff.

all youths involved

Red Deer RCMP respond to downtown stabbing Friday night

2h ago

addressing the "missing middle"

Hazlett Lake, west of QEII 'Centrepoint' developments could progress in not-too-distant future

13h ago

Available for local businesses

Central Alberta First, RDP launch new Artificial Intelligence workshop series

Apr 17, 2026

“The City is pleased this amendment to the Responsible Animal Ownership Bylaw was approved,” adds Director of Corporate Services, Diane Piche. “This ammendment allows residents to start or maintain apiaries in our community while also ensuring the proper protocols are being followed.”

Urban apiaries will utilize a one-time registration fee of $50 to ensure the applicants have met the Province’s regulations and are compliant with the City’s bylaw. In addition, the City will contact the apiculturists yearly to verify if they are still actively keeping bees.

Administration also requested that Council consider changes for not allowing animals on the sports fields within the City. Further Administration asked Council to consider amending the Vicious Animal section to allow a more efficient process when handling bites and attacks.Council gave third reading to Bylaw 469.1 Responsible Animal Ownership Bylaw Amendment as presented.

by rdnewsNOW Staff

Council amends bylaw to allow urban beekeeping in Lacombe

What's Trending