Guidelines For Rural Beekeeping In Queensland

Main Roads requirements
For efficient land resource utilisation, Main Roads (MR) acknowledges that there are occasions when
use of the land between the road boundaries should be considered for activities other than for road
transport infrastructure. MR is focused on providing safer roads for all users, equitable access and
protecting the environment and road infrastructure.
Permission can be sought by submitting a written application for an Ancillary Works and
Encroachment (AWE) permit (MR Form M2373). These are available through any MR district office at
no cost. The application must be accompanied by details of the proposed location and installation.
Application requirements
When making an application to MR a site inspection is undertaken to determine the suitability of
the proposed site. The suitability of a proposed site covers cultural heritage, legislative issues and
environmental risks, e.g. weed transfer risks. Design documents are checked to ensure conformance
with departmental requirements.
Conditions
A summary of the general conditions is outlined below. Other conditions may be added depending
on circumstances.
• Each site is a maximum 20 metres x 6 metres, with no more than 150 hives.
• The applicant must bear all costs associated with the installation, existence, operation,
maintenance and removal of beehives.
• The applicant must be registered with the DPI&F, under the Apiaries Act 1982 and Regulations.
• The applicant must abide by all legislative requirements and make all approvals available to MR
officers when making application.
• The applicant must provide an Insurance Certificate from a reputable insurer for public liability
insurance cover for at least $10 million in the name of the applicant/organisation, and with the
interests of the State of Queensland acting through the MR noted thereon.
• A statement by the applicant/organisation indemnifying the State of Queensland acting through
the MR against any claims whatsoever arising from the beekeeping activities.
• Minimum distance of 1 km from other registered/approved apiary sites.
• Minimum distance of 9 metres from closest edge of roadway.
• Minimum distance of 100 metres from recreation areas, rest areas and private property access.
• Minimum distance of 3 metres from adjacent property boundaries.
• Access must be made using existing intersections or property accesses.
• 2 metre fire breaks must be cleared and maintained around the site. This must be kept to a
minimum needed to install the beehives. Trees are not to be cleared without written permission of
the district office.
• All mechanical equipment must be maintained and used so that it does not cause a fire.
• The applicant must not use a lighted smoker other than within the perimeter of the firebreak.
• Existing drainage provisions must not be altered during any work associated with the beehives.
• The area must be kept clean and tidy for the duration of the permit and all material brought on
site must be removed.
• When vacating the site the area must be returned to original condition and the district office advised.
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