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How to Keep Bees in Antelope Valley, California

California beekeepers must pay close attention to laws in Antelope Valley, California. The California Food and Agricultural Code regulates all beehive registration. These rules ensure California officials can notify you before the use of pesticides on crops and prevent hive collapse by spreading disease between bees. California also reserves the right to inspect your beehives and inspect bees shipped into the state from suppliers. If you live in another state but keep bees in California, there are additional steps you must follow.

Things You'll Need

California Tax Form 588
Open land with flowers and a water source

Instructions

Things to Do Before Purchasing Equipment
- 1
  Check the landscape where you want to keep bees. Monitor the area through spring and summer to see how many native plants and trees produce blooms. Bees need pollen and nectar throughout the spring and summer to produce enough food for the colony's survival. They also require water, so a clean water source is important.
- 2
  Register your hives with the agricultural commission every January. The fee is $10 (as of June 2011). Email or call the California Department of Food and Agriculture to receive the application and information packet. Depending on the number of hives, officials may ask to inspect your hives.
- 3
  Complete California Form 588 only if you do not reside in California. The Franchise Tax Board (FTB) withholds 7 percent of your income from beekeeping unless you apply for a waiver. Fill out the form found on California's FTB website, print two copies,
- 4
  Join the California State Beekeepers Association. Membership in this organization provides you with up-to-the-minute information regarding changes to the law and theft protection services.
Supplies Needed for Beekeeping
- 5
  Purchase boxes and frame from a reputable dealer or online retailer. Professional beekeepers prefer wooden components because plastic traps moisture.
- 6
  Buy a beekeeping suit and gloves to prevent stings. The suit should have elastic cuffs at the ankles and wrists to keep bees from entering the suit. A hat with screening over the face and neck is also important.
- 7
  Purchase a small tray for sugar water to place near the opening of the hive. Until the bees find pollen and nectar on their own, you should have a food source available.
- 8
  Buy a smoker and fuel, if necessary. If you have pine trees in the area, dried pine needles make excellent fuel. The smoker is necessary to calm bees when you open the hive.
- 9
  Purchase a hive tool. This tool helps strip away the plant resins bees use to seal the top of their hive. You must cut through the layer of resin when you open the hive.
- 10
  Order your starter bees. You will need one package for each hive. A package of bees includes a queen and a few pounds of bees. Wait for the bees to arrive.

Insects & Science