How to Get Rid of a Beehive

Behind Bricks & Siding

Bees only need a 1/8 inch gap to enter. Nests in these locations often go unnoticed and become substantial.

Eaves & Soffits

High, isolated spots favored by bees. Can cause roof damage and attract rats, possums, and raccoons.

Concrete Blocks

Hollowed-out cinder blocks offer ideal nesting sites. Bees can easily squeeze into or behind them.

Hollow Trees

Perfect natural shelter for bees. Removal can be challenging due to access issues.

Under Sheds

Bees nest under floorboards and support structures where there is less foot traffic.

Local Beekeepers

For honeybees, a beekeeper might relocate the hive at little to no cost since they can integrate bees into their operations.

Find beekeepers through: American Beekeeping Federation, local farmers' markets, plant nurseries, or stores selling local honey.

Pest Control Professionals

Necessary for large hives, indoor locations, or non-honeybee species. Exterminators handle challenging removals where hives are hard to reach or deep in structures like walls or chimneys.

Do Not Use Bee Deterrents

Soap, water, and other deterrents will not make established hives leave. Once honeybees have built a hive, they are highly committed and will not abandon it due to minor irritants.

Do Not Seal Bees Inside

Trapped bees have food and air to survive. They will seek alternative exits into your living space, creating a persistent problem for weeks.

Do Not Smoke Them Out

Smoke forces bees deeper into the house, making removal harder. It also presents significant fire hazards since improperly handled smoke can ignite surrounding materials.

Leave Non-Problematic Bees Alone

Bees are vital pollinators experiencing population declines. If they are just pollinating your garden and not threatening anyone, let them be. They typically do not sting unless threatened.

Confirm They Are Bees, Not Wasps

Wasps and hornets require different handling. Beehives are waxy with 10,000-50,000 bees. Wasp nests are not waxy and have different characteristics.

Africanized Killer Bees

Present in TX, FL, AZ, NM, CA. Highly defensive and sting in large numbers. Never attempt DIY removal and contact experienced professionals only.

Do Not Wait for Bees to Leave

Hives do not go away on their own. They grow larger and harder to remove. Spring swarming can establish new colonies elsewhere on your property.

Remove All Traces

Completely remove honeycombs, honey, and wax since these attract other insects and animals. Use heavy-duty trash bags for disposal.

Seal Entry Points

Use expanding spray foam, mesh screens, or other barriers. For tree trunks, block access completely.

Eliminate Odors

Scrub the area with soap and water to remove pheromones and bacteria that could attract new swarms.

Repair Damage

Patch any structural damage and seal openings. If repairs are beyond your capabilities, hire a professional.