Eden Prairie is the latest city to allow back-yard beekeeping, which has taken off in popularity in recent years.

The City Council approved an ordinance Tuesday that allows for beekeeping in residential areas after residents requested it.

Council Member Kathy Nelson cast the only vote against the measure because of concerns the hobby will harm some residents, especially those with bee allergies.

The city joins other suburbs such as Circle Pines, St. Paul Park and Stillwater that allow beekeeping as long as residents get a permit and follow certain regulations. St. Paul and Minneapolis also allow it. Other cities either don't have a specific ordinance on beekeeping, outwardly prohibit it or restrict it to rural properties.

Eden Prairie staff estimates a half-dozen people will seek the new permits.

KELLY SMITH | @kellystrib