FAQs • Teton County, WY • CivicEngage

Do I have to use bear resistant containers during the winter months?: Bear resistant containers must be used all year. The regulations do not specify certain months, as it would be hard to not only to regulate, but also for the trash companies to switch out and store containers for a few months at a time.

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Bear Resistant Trash Containers

1. What is a bear resistant container or dumpster?: Certified bear resistant containers or dumpsters meet the "minimum structural design standards" published by the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee (IGBC) in 1989 or has successfully passed the testing program and protocols recited in the Bear Resistant Products Testing Program (October 2005). LDR Section 5.1.3 also details the specifications for a Bear-Resistance Building, Enclosure or Fencing.

2. How do I obtain a certified bear resistant container?: Local sanitation companies and property management companies have started replacing current trash containers with certified containers. Please contact your sanitation company or property management company to find out if they intend to replace your trash container. When purchasing your own container, visit the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee website and review the list of Certified Bear-Resistant Products.

3. Does this regulation apply to my recycling bins?: No, this regulation does not apply to recycling bins at this time.

4. Do I have to buy new containers if I take my garbage to the Transfer Station?: If you are not serviced by a local provider and take your garbage directly to the Transfer Station, trash may be stored in other containers as long it is stored in a bear resistant building at all times while on your property.

5. Do I have to use bear resistant containers during the winter months?: Bear resistant containers must be used all year. The regulations do not specify certain months, as it would be hard to not only to regulate, but also for the trash companies to switch out and store containers for a few months at a time.

6. What happens if I do not use a bear resistant container?: Owners may be attracting bears to residential neighborhoods, which may pose threats to human safety and pets. Teton County could seek abatement of these violations with possible fines up to $750 per day, per offense. However, the last thing anyone wants to see is a conflict resulting in someone getting hurt, property damage or a bear being removed from an area.

7. What should I do if there is damage to my bear resistant containers and the lid does not latch properly?: Should you have any problems with the lids latching, please do not ignore it, but contact your collection agency immediately. They have been repairing or replacing containers.