It’s Pollinator Week, which means it’s time to give bees their flowers — literally. These petite powerhouses pollinate 80% of the world’s flowering plants and a third of what we eat. TLDR: No bees, no brunch.
Luckily, beekeeping is buzzing in KC — it’s low-maintenance, good for the planet, and comes with a sweet reward. Here’s what to know before you don the veil and go full Pooh Bear.
Sweet, sweet regulations
Kansas City, Missouri regulations are relatively lax when it comes to beekeeping — requiring only that each apiary be registered and “maintained in a reasonable and proper manner” so they don’t bother any nearby neighbors. For our friends on the Kansas side, consult the Northeastern Kansas Beekeeper’s Association’s round-up of state + city-wide codes.
Starting your swarm
Thinking of diving in? Bee KC, a local nonprofit focused on urban beekeeping, recommends starting with 3–5 hives. It may sound like a lot, but here’s the logic: comparing multiple colonies helps you troubleshoot issues early, and stronger hives can sometimes bolster weaker ones nearby.
Each hive only needs ~2 hours of maintenance per week during the warmer months. And in winter? Bees more or less hibernate — though not all will make it through KC’s frosty season, so be prepared to replace colonies come spring.
What it’ll cost you
Getting started isn’t cheap, but having the perfect gift for any housewarming party is priceless:
- Protective suit: $150+
- Hive: $250+ per hive
- Colony of bees: $120–$200
- Feeding + treatment: $100–$150/year
Bees aren’t picky about aesthetics, but you might be — so explore your hive style. Langstroth hives are the most common and stack like drawers. Top Bar hives are horizontal and simpler to manage, especially for hobbyists. Either way, your hives will need regular TLC to stay strong and productive.
Pick a sunny, wind-sheltered spot with nearby water access and room for you to move around. Bonus points for south-facing entrances to get your bees up and foraging early.
Side note: Despite what “My Girl” taught you, honey bees are usually chill. They’ll only sting if threatened, and with proper gear, most beekeepers only get stung a few times a year.
Still buzzing with questions?
You’re not in this alone. Local groups like Bee KC and MO Hives KC offer beginner-friendly workshops, volunteer opportunities, and even swarm rehoming around the city. Before you invest in your own setup, consider getting hands-on experience by helping tend a community hive.
Have other tips or tricks to beekeeping that we missed? Please give us a buzz.
