07/21/2026
In a few days I will submit a brief in Urban v. City of South Charleston. While the case facts are complicated, the gist is that South Charleston passed an ordinance banning beekeepers from maintaining their apiaries within municipal limits. My client, who had the consent of all his adjacent neighbors, practiced beekeeping without incident for years. Dozens of other beekeepers in South Charleston did the same. The beekeeping ban directly violates the state's thorough agricultural policy and could cost similarly situated beekeepers across West Virginia thousands of dollars, along with the threat of criminal prosecution. All for pursuing a hobby that encourages small-business activity, helps the environment, and harms no one. I hope you'll take the time to read this article about the case and make your voice heard in local government.
CHARLESTON — The West Virginia Supreme Court of Appeals is set to consider whether the city of South Charleston has the legal authority to prohibit beekeeping within city limits, after
