Questions still swarming around Des Plaines’ beekeeping plan

A proposal that would allow more Des Plaines residents to keep beehives in their backyards has city council members buzzing — but it doesn’t yet have their support.

Council members debated the merits of a possible pilot program Monday night but reached no consensus.

Only apiaries being used for educational purposes are allowed in Des Plaines. But officials are reconsidering that restriction because beekeeping as a hobby is growing in popularity, much like keeping chickens in backyard coops.

A pilot program could allow up to 10 residents to maintain licensed hives. Only people living in single-family homes would be allowed to set up apiaries.

Signs warning neighbors and passersby of bees on the property could be required.

During Monday’s discussion, Mayor Andrew Goczkowski said he’s received emails from people concerned that honeybees, which in Illinois typically only live in human-made hives, could drive away native pollinating insects. Resident and gardening enthusiast Mary Apcel rose to share the same concern.

Community and Economic Development Director Jeff Rogers said the number of bees that would occupy the limited number of apiaries allowed under the proposed program shouldn’t be significant enough to affect the native bee population.

Goczkowski said he’s also heard from people who are severely allergic to honeybee venom and are concerned about a proliferation of the insects.

Several alderman suggested applicants should attend classes on beekeeping as a license requirement.

“If we are going to move forward, we would want them to be educated,” said 8th Ward Alderman Michael Charewicz.

First Ward Alderman Mark Lysakowski said beekeeping licenses shouldn’t be approved without the approval of applicants’ immediate neighbors.

After more discussion, Rogers was directed to collect more information for a future public discussion by the council.

Arlington Heights, Deer Park, Elgin and Naperville are among the communities that allow beekeeping. Rules vary from town to town.