SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO.com) — Backyard beekeeping is legal in Sioux Falls after the city council passed an ordinance allowing it Tuesday night.
The ordinance passed 6-2 after extensive discussion. Councilors Christine Erikson and Rick Kiley were the ‘no’ votes.
Councilors Janet Brekke and Theresa Stehley have been working on the ordinance for some time.
The ordinance requires anyone seeking a permit to get the approval of all of their neighbors whose property directly borders theirs, as well as 80 percent of people who live within 100 feet of their property.
There would also be a sign posted next to the property alerting passers-by that a beehive is nearby, per an amendment to the ordinance approved at Tuesday’s meeting.
Kiley expressed concerns about children in Sioux Falls who are allergic to bee stings, as well as the difficulty containing bees.
Beekeeper Tim Olson told the council bees often get a bad rap when it comes to stings.
“Oftentimes we’re stung by hornets and wasps, and it’s the honorable bee that gets the blame,” Olson said.
