Home >> Science & Nature >> Insects & Science

How to Be a Honey Bee Keeper in Spokane County, Washington

Beekeeping is a profitable hobby that also benefits the environment in Washington. You turn a profit selling honey and beeswax candles to the public. Bees help pollinate vegetables making sure food crops thrive. To promote beekeeping, Washington provides Spokane County apiarists with tax exemptions. The Washington State Beekeepers Association helps track disease and provides educational programs to beginning beekeepers. They also help you qualify for these tax breaks. You can earn tax breaks while your bees produce ample amounts of honey and wax.

Instructions

- 1
  Contact your town government and ask about current town or county laws (WAC 197-11-960 Section 11.10.230) regarding the placement and number of beehives. The regulations and zoning laws create strict rules beekeepers must follow before establishing bee colonies on their property.
- 2
  If you receive permission from your town, inform your closest neighbors. If anyone in their home is allergic to bee venom, it's important that they are aware of the location of your hives to avoid any accidental encounter. Consider moving the hive far away from their property line if they are allergic.
- 3
  Enroll your bee colonies with the Department of Agriculture in Washington. The registration fee is based on the number of colonies you own. Washington law requires registration of all bee colonies.
- 4
  Sign up for the Basic Beekeeping Class offered by the Inland Empire Beekeepers' Association. the course teaches you everything you need to know about beekeeping in Spokane County, Washington. Topics include necessary beekeeping equipment, hive management tips, disease prevention and collecting honey.

Insects & Science