How to Pick a Beehive Location

Research your state and local laws about beekeeping before investing in beehives. Some local communities ban beekeeping in certain areas. Register as a beekeeper with the appropriate state agency. Contact your local Agricultural Extension Office for tips on beekeeping in your area.

Learn bee flight patterns before choosing a hive location. Place hives in locations that encourage flight patterns that take the bees away from neighbors and pets.

Locate a sunny spot to place your beehives. Keeping bees in shade produces mean bees. Beekeeping in the city is possible by placing hives in any sunny location with access to water and nectar.

Choose a location near flowering plants and shrubs. This provides a source of nectar to keep your bees happy and healthy.

Place beehives near a water source. Create a water source if a natural source is unavailable. Bees prefer standing water that contains organic matter. Install a small pond or pool near the hives to keep your bees close to home. Place rocks or flotation devices in your water source to prevent bees from drowning or from changing their source of water.

Force your bees to fly up, out of the paths of humans and pets by surrounding the hives with a 6-foot fence. Hide your hives by planting bee friendly shrubs around the hives. Good beekeeping requires the beekeeper to protect her bees and her neighbors from harm.