An Oak Park property owner can establish up to two honeybee colonies as long as the apiary meets specific Village code requirements. Beekeepers must register with the Illinois Department of Agriculture, provide an on-site water source for the bees, keep records of hive maintenance, provide a flyaway barrier and surround the apiary with dense vegetation or a fence at least five feet high. Beekeepers also must apply for an annual permit, pay a $75 fee and have their properties inspected by the Department of Public Health before a permit will be issued. A beekeeping permit will not be issued for an apiary within 150 feet of any address where a resident with an allergy to bee stings documented by a licensed physician has registered with the Village. For more information, call 708.358.5480 or e-mail health@oak-park.us.