Aloha Beekeepers and Supporters,

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After six years of perseverance, we are thrilled to announce a significant milestone: the introduction of Bill 144-24, an ordinance aimed at regulating beekeeping and apiaries. This vital legislation is currently in the process of becoming law and will undergo a crucial review, the first step, by the Policy Committee on Public Health, Safety, and Well-Being on April 2, 2024, at 10:00 am.

 

Background:

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Recognizing the need to address outdated regulations and exclusions concerning bees and apiaries, a dedicated effort was made to craft a new ordinance tailored specifically for these vital aspects of our ecosystem and our bee industries. Under the leadership of Council Member Ashley Kirkiewicz, a diverse committee was formed, comprising beekeeping stakeholders ranging from hobbyists to commercial beekeepers and queen breeders. Additionally, representatives from the Health Department, Planning Department, Department of Agriculture, and Corporate Counsel lent their expertise to this collaborative endeavor.

 

Highlights of the bill:

 

1. Permits beekeeping and siting of apiaries across all zoning districts.

2. Removes requirement that hives be setback 1,000 feet from a major roadway.

3. Establishes generally accepted Best Management Practices to encourage appropriate apiary setups.

4. Limits number of hives to 15 on lots smaller than 20,000 sq. feet (0.46 acre).

5. Planning Director may grant exemption for lots less than 20,000 sq. feet with more than 15 hives.

6. Requires that hives be set back at least 25 feet from property line, or 15 feet with flyover barrier.

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Action Needed:

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The Big Island Beekeepers Association urgently requests your support to ensure the successful passage of Bill 144-24 through the committee on April 2, 2024. Your assistance in submitting testimony is crucial to this effort.

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How to submit testimony:

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1. Email testimony by Monday, April 1 at noon: CouncilTestimony@hawaiicounty.gov. Title your email “Support for Bill 144-24”

2. Register to provide virtual testimony via Zoom: CouncilRemoteTestimony@hawaiicounty.gov

3. Remote testimony in Kona Chambers or Pahoa Council Office .

4. Testify in-person on April 2 in Hilo Chambers.

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Click here for a copy of the bill for reference. Thank you in advance for your support.

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