bees on honeycomb

The City of Selkirk allows apiaries (honey bee operations) in qualifying properties. The city must approve any new or renewed operation, which requires obtaining a Beekeepers Permit.

Beekeeping Limitations

  • Only the property listed on an approved permit can hold a valid Beekeeping Permit.
  • Permits remain valid until December 31st of the current year.
  • The registered Beekeeper must renew their permits annually.
  • A property with a Beekeeping Permit can have up to two (2) hives and one (1) nucleus hive per civic address.
  • Beekeepers with a City of Selkirk approved permit must follow the Manitoba Bee Act and any subsequent Acts or Regulations.
  • Beekeeping must not interfere with residential activities, and the City may revoke permits if a Beekeeper’s activities harm the area, requiring the Beekeeper to remove all Apiaries at their own expense.
  • Beekeepers must practice good agricultural management and husbandry to prevent swarming and aggressive bee behavior.

Required Criteria

  1. The Province of Manitoba has approved the Beekeeping Permit and inspection certificate.
  2. The property owner must provide a letter of permission if the applicant does not own the property where the bees will reside.
  3. The site must provide a constant water source for the hives:
    • From April 1 to October 31 annually.
    • For an extended period if the weather conditions demand.

4. The hives should be 20ft (6.1m) away from any fencing unless:

    • A City of Selkirk Designated Officer approves the solid nature of the fencing.
    • The fencing, surrounded by a hedge or solid vegetation, receives approval from a City of Selkirk Designated Officer.
    • The hives sit on a rooftop terrace at least 14ft (4.1m) above the ground.
    • Rooftop terraces must comply with Manitoba’s Planning Act, City of Selkirk Zoning By-law, or any subsequent Act, By-Law, or Regulation.

5. New applicants must submit a site plan that details the above requirements for their Beekeeping operation.

* The City of Selkirk may inspect the property before or after issuing a Beekeeping Permit.

Important Information

  • Urban beekeeping is discouraged before completing a recognized course in beekeeping and/or seeking membership in a local bee club. The University of Manitoba offers the Beekeeping for the Hobbyist course.
  • The Province of Manitoba registers and inspects all beekeeping operations under the Bee Act of Manitoba.
  • The Bee Connected App is available to any beekeeper who would like to be connected with farmers near their beehives, or would like to be informed of crop protection activities near their beehives.

How to Apply

Citizens of Selkirk can apply using the online application below, or in-person at the Civic Office Monday through Friday 10am-4pm.

Please read the required criteria above to ensure you are compliant with the terms. Confirm you have all information and required documents ready before you apply.