75C - PH AMND MUNI CODE SEC 5-1 AND 5-7

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Ordinance Amending Santa Ana Municipal Code Sections 5-1 and 5-7 November 7, 2017 Page 2 Research and Community Input Staff researched residential beekeeping regulations and guidelines in other cities in California and other states. A summary of this research is attached for reference (Exhibit A). In addition, staff consulted with the Orange County Agricultural Commissioner, the city's Animal Control Division and local biologist specializing in bee research to discuss proposed regulations and addressed safety concerns. Research indicates that beekeeping is a use that is compatible with other urban uses, as domestic bees are typically docile and nonaggressive, and become defensive only when their hives are directly threatened. Furthermore, on August 10, 2017, staff hosted a community meeting and introduced the public to the concepts being explored by staff, as well as to receive public comments on the preliminary beekeeping regulations. In addition, staff created a survey that was posted on social media and the city's webpage and was sent via email using the city's email blast platform. A total of 143 surveys were completed by individuals. Community feedback received during the community meeting and via the online survey was used to draft the proposed beekeeping regulations. Proposed Ordinance The proposed ordinance (Exhibit B) will allow beekeeping on single-family residential properties, subject to the regulations noted on Table 1. Table 1: Beekeeping Reaulations [$uki ectI I I [Standard General Requirements No more than two (2) hives may be maintained on a single-family residential property with 6,000 square feet or less. On lots larger than 6,000 square feet, the number of hives is limited to one (1) hive for every 3,000 square feet of lot area. All bee colonies shall be kept in hives consisting of moveable frames which shall be kept in sound and usable condition. Hive Placement Requirements Hives shall be located within the rear yard of a single-family residential property. A rear yard is a yard extending across the full width of the lot between the most rear main building and the rear lot line. The depth of the required rear yard shall be measured from the nearest point of the rear lot line toward the nearest main wall of the building. Hives shall be located a minimum of 20 feet from public rights-of-way or private streets. Hives shall be located a minimum of five (5) feet from interior lots lines; provided, however, that this requirement may be waived in writing subject to the approval of the adjoining property owner(s). Hives must either be screened so that bees must fly over a six-foot barrier, which may be vegetative, before leaving the property, or be placed eight feet above the adjacent ground floor. Hives must face away from nearest lot lines. Hive Management Requirements Colonies must be maintained so as to not interfere with the quiet enjoyment of surrounding properties. A water source for bees shall be provided at all times on the property where the 75C-2