Urban Beekeeping

Beekeeping is a safe, hands-on way to connect with nature and learn more about food and sustainability, right in your own backyard.

Beekeeping in Stony Plain is regulated and enforced under the Non-domestic Animal Bylaw.

Anyone at least 18 years old can apply for an Urban Beekeeping Licence and keep up to two hives per property. 

Become a Beekeeper

Step 1: Know the Regulations

You are responsible for understanding and following all municipal and provincial beekeeping regulations. The information below explains the rules and expectations for equipment, care, and licensing of bees in Stony Plain. 

• Urban Beekeeping Guidelines
• Non-domestic Animal Bylaw
• Alberta’s Bee Act
• Alberta’s Animal Health Act

Step 2: Learn Beekeeping

Before applying for a beekeeping licence, you must:

• complete a beekeeping course or training from an accepted organization
• find an experienced beekeeping mentor

Step 3: Get Registered

Under provincial law, all beekeepers must have a Premise Identification (PID) and be registered with the Provincial Apiculturist. By registering, you link your bees to a specific location so the province can quickly trace and address disease outbreaks and notify you about emergencies like floods or fires that could affect your bees.  

• Register for a PID
• Register with the Provincial Apiculturist (annual registration required, expires June 29 each year)

Step 4: Notify Neighbours

You must notify all immediate neighbours (including neighbours attached to your property or across an alleyway) in writing of your intent to keep bees. If your neighbouring properties are apartment buildings, churches, businesses, or other non-residential properties send your letters to the building manager or business owner.

This is not asking neighbours for permission, it is a notification of your intent to apply for a licence and keep bees on your property.

Your neighbours have two weeks to respond to the Town of Stony Plain with any concerns.

• Notification Letter Template

Step 4: Apply for an Urban Beekeeping Licence
Collect the following information, fill out the application form, and send everything in electronically:

• PID
• Proof of registration with the Provincial Apiculturist
• Copies of the neighbour notification letters (include the date and addresses the letters were sent to, do not submit your application until you have given your neighbours two weeks to respond)
• Drawing or site plan of the hive(s) location in relation to lot lines, dwellings, garages, sheds, and other structures
• Proof of completion of an accepted beekeeping course or training
• Proof of mentorship with an experienced beekeeper
• If you are not the property owner, a signed letter of permission from the owner
• Payment – a first-year application and licence is $150 and annual renewals are $25

Urban Beekeeping Licence Application

Food Safety 

Products from backyard bees should be for personal use. Keepers must follow provincial and federal regulations for animal health and food safety to protect themselves and the community. 

Selling products: Keepers may sell honey and other products to friends and family. If keepers want to sell products at a market or event, they must comply with relevant regulations such as a business licence or insurance.

Complaints

Complaints can be made to the Town’s Bylaw Enforcement team online Report a Problem, or contact enforcement@stonyplain.com, 780-963-2151. The Town will respond to all complaints and investigate when warranted.

Enforcement

Failing to comply with the terms and conditions of an Urban Beekeeping Licence may result in a fine of $250, or a licence being revoked. Keeping bees without a licence will result in a $250 fine. 

Resources

• Honeybee health and apiculture 
• Bees vs Wasps 
• Purchasing Honey Bees or Equipment in Alberta
• Alberta Beekeepers Commission
• Edmonton District Beekeepers' Association

Contact

If you have questions about Urban Beekeeping, contact planning@stonyplain.com or 780-963-8598.