(a) The keeping or harboring of bees, including but not limited to honey bees and bumble bees, shall be limited to a maximum of two hives on a minimum lot size of 11,000 square feet, and no more than four hives on a one-half acre lot, in a residential zone only. For purposes of this division only, "lot size" shall include sidewalk areas, tree lawns or any other areas behind the street curb-line within the public right-of-way which fronts upon the property, which shall harbor the bees.
(b) A beehive must be kept a minimum of twenty-five feet from property lines, and the bees' flight pattern must be directed away from a neighbor's entrances and lines of traffic.
(c) A water source must be provided on the premises, placed a minimum of five feet from the property line.
(d) Neglected bees, as determined by the County Apiary Inspector, are prohibited.
(e) The failure to remove, or authorize the removal of, any natural or manmade hive or nest, or other living quarters for bees, (including but not limited to honey bees and bumble bees), wasps, yellow jackets and hornets, within three days after notice is served by the Building Commissioner upon the owner/guardian and /or occupant, shall be prima facie evidence that bees (including but not limited to honey bees and bumble bees), wasps, yellow jackets and hornets, are being kept or harbored on the premises by such owner/guardian and/or occupant.
(f) Anyone who owns or possesses bees in the State of Ohio is required to complete an annual registration by June 1st with the Cuyahoga County Health Department.
(g) Whoever violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. A separate offense shall be deemed committed each day during or on which a violation occurs or continues. (Ord. 2018-78. Passed 10-23-18.)