So you’ve decided to become a beekeeper — or you’re seriously thinking about it. You’ve got your gear picked out, you’re eyeing a starter kit, and you’re wondering: Where exactly should I put my hive?
It’s a simple question, but one that can make a big difference in the success of your bees — especially in British Columbia, where our climate can throw a few curveballs.
If you’re setting up your first backyard hive, here’s what you need to know to choose the best spot for your bees.
Sunlight: Bees Love the Morning Light
One of the best things you can do for your hive is give it early morning sun. When the hive warms up quickly in the morning, the bees become active earlier in the day, which means more foraging hours and stronger colony growth.
Ideally, choose a spot that gets sun from the east or southeast, especially in the spring and fall when days are cooler.
If you’re in a very hot part of BC (like the Okanagan), you may want to offer some dappled afternoon shade in peak summer — just make sure it doesn’t stay cool and damp all day.
Wind & Weather Protection
Bees don’t like cold drafts or damp conditions, and BC’s coastal climate can be wet and windy, especially through the fall and winter. Place your hive in a location that’s sheltered from prevailing winds — near a fence, hedge, or wall if possible.
Avoid low-lying areas where moisture collects, and make sure water doesn’t pool under the hive after rain.
If your area gets heavy snow, you’ll also want to make sure the hive is elevated off the ground and away from roof lines or slopes where snow might pile up.
Easy Access for You (and Only You)
It’s easy to focus on what bees need — but don’t forget about yourself. You’ll be inspecting your hive regularly, lifting boxes, and doing seasonal maintenance. Choose a spot where you can comfortably stand, move around the hive, and access it safely in any season.
Avoid placing your hive:
In tall grass you have to wade through
Right against a wall or fence with no room to open it
On uneven or muddy ground
And make sure you’re not blocking walkways, doorways, or paths that others use frequently.
Face the Right Way
This one’s small but important: try to position the entrance of your hive facing away from heavy foot traffic. Bees are generally calm, but when they’re guarding the entrance, they don’t want people walking back and forth in front of it.
In most cases, facing the entrance east or southeast works well — morning sun, limited disruption.
Consider the Neighbours
In British Columbia, backyard beekeeping is generally permitted — but that doesn’t mean your neighbours are always thrilled to have bees next door.
A good fence or hedge between your hive and neighbouring properties can help redirect your bees’ flight path upwards and reduce direct interactions. This not only keeps everyone happier — it also makes your bees more focused on foraging, not defending.
It’s also smart to:
Keep water available near your hive (so bees don’t go hunting in birdbaths or hot tubs)
Let your neighbours know ahead of time, especially if they have allergies or concerns
A Quick Checklist
Before you commit to a spot, ask yourself:
Does it get morning sun?
Is it protected from wind and rain?
Can I access it easily in any season?
Is it out of the way of daily human traffic?
Will it keep neighbours comfortable?
Is it level, dry, and elevated?
If you’ve answered yes to most of the above, you’ve probably found a great location for your first hive.
Get Set Up the Right Way
At BCBeeSupply.ca, we help beginners across British Columbia get started with confidence — including advice on hive placement, equipment setup, and seasonal tips tailored to our climate.
Whether you’re just starting out or you're ready to order your first hive, we’ve got everything you need to succeed.
Final Thoughts
Beekeeping doesn’t have to be complicated — and choosing the right spot for your hive is one of the first big decisions that sets the tone for your season. With a little thought and planning, you’ll give your bees the best chance to thrive and make your experience more enjoyable.
Still unsure where to place your hive? Ask us anytime — we’re here to help.