4.3 PCSR 04-24-2018 - Laserfiche WebLink

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N:\Departments\Community Development\Planning\Case Files\OA\OA 18-04 Beekeeping\4-Planning Commission\OA 18-04 Beekeeping_PC 3- 27-18.docx  For each colony permitted to be maintained, there may also be maintained upon the same apiary lot, one nucleus colony in a hive structure not to exceed one standard nine and five-eights (9-5/8) inch depth box, ten frame hive body with no supers.  Beekeeping equipment must be maintained in good condition, including keeping the hives free of chipped and peeling paint if painted, and any unused equipment must be stored in an enclosed structure.  Hives shall be continuously managed to provide adequate living space for their resident honeybees in order to prevent swarming. The purpose of these regulations is to prevent a swarm by utilizing standard hive equipment to ensure adequate housing Additionally, staff is looking to encourage educational courses with permit fee reductions. Staff recommends reducing the permit fee by $135, which is the price of the University of Minnesota ‘Beekeeping in Northern Climates Year 1’ class. The permit fee will then be $50 for the first fee and every renewal following. Without the educational class the permit fee will be $185 for the first permit and each renewal. The permit fee will cover public notice (i.e., staff approval), site visit and ongoing enforcement. Education will be the key to help new beekeepers prevent overcrowding or inadequate housing conditions for honey bees. The Planning Commission reviewed the proposed beekeeping ordinance at their work session on February 27, 2018. There was a discussion permit fees to be increased to $185 to cover staff’s time if educational classes are taken to reduce the permit fee. Financial Impact None Attachments  Proposed Beekeeping Ordinance  Environmental Beekeeping Memorandum  Site Plan Comments