I've had multiple hives for years and never had any complaints. As Bingo said, bees don't attack unless they feel threatened. Bees out gathering pollen, nectar, or water pay little attention to the goings on around them. I suppose you could upset a few if you started trying to swat them off of a blooming tree or bush or a bird bath, but even then they'd not sting immediately. Warning bumps first before they resorted to attacking.

Until last year, I lived in a typical suburban neighborhood where there are neighbors on all sides, fairly close. A few would watch me work the hives (from a distance), some asked me questions occasionally, but never a single complaint.

I didn't let people work a hive with me unless I had an epi pen handy, just in case. Never had any issues. No one has ever been stung while visiting and that includes many an afternoon/evening sitting outside with a glass of wine.

I live away from the city now, so no close neighbors. The people across the road have asked if they can watch the next time I extract. I told them I have extra suits and will let them know when. Probably three months from now.