Last Call: OBA is Seeking Feedback from Ontario Beekeepers on 30m Setback Requirement in the Bees Act

THE OBA DRAFT POSITION STATEMENT

It is time for the Province to reconsider the setback requirements of the Ontario Bees Act, which were promulgated 28 years ago when beekeeping was an activity mostly confined to agricultural areas. Ontario needs new rules that provide a consistent framework, that provide more flexibility for beekeeping in populated and rural areas, and at the same time encourage responsible management practices. 

The Ontario Beekeepers’ Association (OBA) calls on the Province to rescind the setback requirements in Sections 19(1) and 19(2) of the Ontario Bees Act.

In place of these requirements, the OBA recommends that the Provincial Apiarist collaborate with the OBA and with interested municipalities to develop and promulgate Ontario Guidelines for Beekeepers in Residential, Commercial, and Industrial Areas.

Read More.

CONSULTATION QUESTIONS

1. Do you support OBA’s draft Position Statement on the 30-metre setback requirements set out in Sections 19(1) and 19(2) of the Ontario Bees Act?
   
   
2. Do you support the proposed Framework/Guidelines?
   
   
3. What do you consider to be the benefits or risks to honey bees and the sustainability of Ontario beekeeping that relate to the OBA’s Position?
   
   
4. Are there other elements set out in the Bees Act, or missing from the Bees Act, that you would like to raise for OBA consideration?

Email your comments to consultation@ontariobee.com please, by October 10th. 

See the Article in the March/April Ontario Bee Journal for more context.