Selecting the right location for your beehive is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a beekeeper. The placement of your hive will directly affect the health, productivity, and wellbeing of your colony. Factors like sunlight, wind, water access and even human activity can make the difference between a thriving hive and one that struggles.
Choose a sunny location
Bees are solar-powered creatures—they become more active when exposed to warmth and sunlight. Ideally, place your hive somewhere that receives morning sun. This helps warm the hive early in the day and encourages your bees to get to work sooner. Morning sunlight also plays a role in keeping condensation inside the hive under control. However, with the hot Australian summer in mind, it is important to protect your hive from the harsh afternoon sun.
In northern regions like Queensland or the Northern Territory, you’ll want to prioritise afternoon shade to prevent your bees from overheating. In cooler southern areas, like Victoria or Tasmania, full sun will help your colony stay warm, especially during winter.
Shelter from the wind
Strong winds can make it difficult for your bees to fly and maintain their hive temperature. Choose a location that’s protected from gusts, ideally behind a fence, hedge, or garden wall. In windy regions like parts of coastal NSW or South Australia, this protection is even more critical.
Make sure the windbreak doesn’t completely block airflow, as good ventilation helps prevent moisture build-up inside the hive.
Provide access to water nearby
In urban areas, your bees will need access to fresh water, especially during warm weather. They use water for cooling the hive, feeding larvae and thinning honey. Without a reliable water source, your bees may end up foraging from undesirable places like swimming pools or neighbours’ birdbaths—something that could create tension with people around you. A shallow container filled with water and some pebbles or floating wood will help the bees drink safely without drowning. You’ll want to place this water source within 5 to 10 metres of the hive, so the bees can find it easily.
Make sure the water supply is consistent, as once bees find a water source, they’ll keep returning to it.
Keep things quiet and low-traffic
A peaceful location will help your bees stay calm and productive. Avoid placing the hive near walkways, driveways, or areas with lots of activity, especially if you have pets or children. The less disturbed your bees are, the less defensive they’ll become.
In suburban areas, try to set up the hive in a secluded corner of your garden where it’s away from busy foot traffic and neighbours.
Avoid damp and poorly drained areas
Moisture is your hive’s worst enemy. In damp conditions, mould can grow inside the hive, and excess moisture can chill the brood, leading to health issues. Choose a spot with well-drained soil to prevent water from pooling underneath.
It’s a good idea to raise the hive off the ground using a hive stand or platform. This not only improves airflow but also protects the hive from pests like ants or cane toads (common in Queensland).
Face the hive entrance east or north
In Australia, many beekeepers position their hive entrance to face east or north. This way, the hive catches the morning sun and stays warmer throughout the day. An early start to foraging means your bees can collect more nectar and pollen.
If you live in a busier area, bee sure that the entrance isn’t directed towards areas with high human activity to avoid your bees becoming agitated.
Leave enough space around the hive
It is important to have space around your hive to perform regular inspections and maintenance. Try to leave at least a metre of clearance on all sides. If you plan on expanding with additional hives later, spacing them a metre or two apart will prevent drifting, where bees accidentally enter the wrong hive.
Know the rules
Australia has specific laws for beekeeping, including rules about how close your hive can be to property boundaries and public areas. Check with your local council to ensure you meet all the regulations—these can vary by state and city. For example, Victoria requires hives to be a certain distance from neighbouring homes, while NSW has guidelines around hive management in urban areas.
Always notify your neighbours about your hive to avoid misunderstandings. A little communication—and a jar of honey—can go a long way.
