Can bee hives be kept on school property for education purposes?

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The zoning regulations, as passed by the Spokane City Council, read:

17C.310.130 Beekeeping
A. Where permitted. Beekeeping is allowed as an accessory use on lot occupied by a single-family residence that is in the RA, RSF, RTF, RMF and RHD zones. Beekeeping for educational or research purposes by an institution such as a college, high school or agricultural extension office is allowed as a Type II conditional use permit in all other zones, subject to the requirements of section 17C.310.130(B)(1) through (6).

So, if the school meets the same requirements as  a residential beekeeper, then, by the code, it is allowed as an accessory used with a conditional use permit.  You will need to ensure that the school district, and the school itself also allow hives to be kept on the premesis.  

Many schools have flat roofs that would easily accomodate a small number of hives.  Several articles can be found through the Internet search engines that describe the keeping of hives on flat roofs in urban environments including those as populated as New York and the surrounding borroughs.  Here is an article on High Rise Honey in New York City.  Or see where Honeybees Thrive in New York City. 

Here is a sample lesson plan for an Urban Rooftop Garden and Beehive Project in  Oakland school system.  Or see where Chicago's mayor installed beehives to City Hall's rooftop garden.

 Disclaimer:  This topic is not intended to be used as legal advice.  Please make the appropriate inquiries to legal counsel before brining a hive into an environment where students and children may be exposed to bees.

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Last Updated (Saturday, 09 February 2008 23:25)

 
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