A & E

Beekeeper in Brooklyn, New York

(718) 245-810092 E 98th St, Brooklyn, NY 11212View on Yelp

About A & E

A & E is a Brooklyn-based supplier serving one of the most active urban beekeeping communities in the country. New York City lifted its ban on beekeeping back in 2010, and Brooklyn has since become a hub for rooftop and backyard hive operations. Local suppliers here understand the unique challenges of city beekeeping, from navigating building regulations to sourcing equipment that works in tight urban spaces. Whether you're just starting out or managing multiple hives across the borough, having a nearby resource matters.

Services & Process

Urban beekeeping suppliers in Brooklyn typically carry a full range of hive equipment, including Langstroth boxes, frames, protective gear, and smokers suited for rooftop setups. Many also offer hive installation services, helping customers get their first colony established safely. Bee removal is another common service, especially in dense neighborhoods where swarms can appear in wall voids, attics, or outdoor structures. Honey extraction equipment, either for sale or rental, rounds out what most city beekeepers need to bring a season's worth of harvest in.

Service Area

A & E serves beekeepers throughout Brooklyn and the broader New York City metro area. Customers come from neighborhoods like Park Slope, Bushwick, and Bed-Stuy, and the shop is accessible to hobbyists across the other boroughs as well. Surrounding areas in Queens and Staten Island are also within reasonable reach.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is beekeeping legal on rooftops in Brooklyn?
Yes, beekeeping is legal in New York City, including rooftops, as long as hives are registered with the city and placed according to local guidelines. There are restrictions on hive proximity to property lines and public spaces, so it's worth confirming your specific setup before you install. A local supplier familiar with NYC rules can point you in the right direction.
What kind of hive works best for urban settings?
Most Brooklyn beekeepers use standard Langstroth hives, which are modular and manageable even in smaller spaces. Top-bar hives are another option some hobbyists prefer for their simplicity and lower weight. The right choice depends on your goals, your available space, and how hands-on you want your beekeeping experience to be.
How do I handle a swarm that's landed near my building?
Swarms are generally docile and temporary, often moving on within a day or two if left alone. If the swarm is in a problematic location, a local beekeeper or supplier can often collect it for you. Contact a Brooklyn-area bee removal service quickly, because swarms that move into wall cavities become much harder to remove.
How much does it cost to get started with beekeeping in NYC?
A basic starter setup including a hive, protective gear, and tools typically runs between $300 and $500. Your first package of bees or nucleus colony adds another $150 to $200 on top of that. Costs vary depending on the quality of equipment you choose and whether you buy new or used.
Where do urban beekeepers in Brooklyn source their bees?
Most city beekeepers order nucleus colonies or packages from suppliers in early spring, since demand fills up fast. Local beekeeping associations and suppliers often coordinate bulk orders to keep costs down. It's a good idea to place your order by February if you want bees ready for the spring season.
Do I need special training before keeping bees in New York City?
There's no legal requirement for formal training, but taking a beginner's course is strongly recommended before your first hive goes in. The NYC Beekeeping Association and several local suppliers offer workshops throughout the year. Hands-on instruction makes a real difference in your first season, especially when it comes to identifying problems like varroa mites or queenlessness early.

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