Urban Beekeeping Licences
A licence is required for honey beekeeping in St. Albert.
Improving Local Food Crop Pollination
Urban beekeeping in St. Albert can help to improve pollination, in turn increasing food security. Urban beekeeping can also serve as a valuable educational experience that provides a connection to our food system. With appropriate management practices in place, beekeeping in urban areas is a safe activity.
In 2017, City Council passed the Urban Beekeeping Bylaw, which allows beekeeping in St. Albert and outlines the regulations required to participate. The Urban Beekeeping Bylaw is specific to the keeping of honey bees. The Bylaw addresses the number of hives, the setback requirement for the placement of hives, training and mentoring for a beekeeper, and that provincial regulations are followed.
Next Steps
Residents interested in urban beekeeping in St. Albert should read the Urban Beekeeping Bylaw. In addition, residents should also take a course on urban beekeeping and look for an experienced mentor who can be there for you as you become a beekeeper.
Did you know?
Honeybees are imported from Europe and not native to Alberta. They serve a key role in crop pollination, but their introduction can cause problems for our native bees in Alberta. If urban beekeeping is not for you, but you’d like to help native pollinators, the City has a native bee program and can provide many resources on bee hotels, pollinator gardens and the role of native bees in our ecosystem.
Please see our webpage, Native Bees, or visit the Alberta Native Bee Council.
Resources
From the City of St. Albert
Urban Beekeeping Licence Application Form
Authorization Form from Registered Owner
Authorization Form from Leaseholder
Urban Beekeeping Frequently Asked Questions
Beekeeping Courses
Apiaries & Bees for Communities (ABC Bees)
Edmonton and District Beekeepers Association
External Resources
Bee-Friendly Garden Design Tips
Government of Alberta – Honey Bee Health and ApicultureRelated Pages
Last edited: August 12, 2025