Knowledge Base

Bears

Bear Encounters

Please do not use QAspen to report Bear activity. QAspen is not monitored 24/7.  Reports made to QAspen may not be seen right away, particularly after normal business hours. 

 If you encounter a bear out-and-about in town, please remember they are wild animals. If a bear comes near your home, trail, or business, yell, blow a whistle, clap your hands, or make other loud noises. Never approach or corner a bear. If the bear remains and you feel it presents a threat, call the non-emergent dispatch line (970-920-5310) or 911 in an emergency.

Bear standing holding sign Opens in new window

  • Never approach or gather around bears, which can be considered harassment of wildlife

  • Stay calm, don't run

  • Back away slowly

  • Avoid eye contact

  • Never feed a bear

  • Leave cubs alone

  • Keep pets on leash

  • Fight back if attacked

Trash Laws

  • Wildlife-resistant refuse containers are required for curbside pickup 

  • Trash must be kept indoors (garage or house) until 6 a.m. on the day of pickup 

  • Trash can only be left outdoors if it is stored in a wildlife-proof  refuse container or wildlife-resistant dumpster. 

Learn the difference between wildlife-resistant and wildlife-proof containers by reviewing the complete city ordinance.

Penalties

Failure to comply with this ordinance may result in:

  • 1st Offense: $250 fine

  • 2nd Offense: $500 fine

  • 3rd Offense: $999 fine and mandatory court appearance

Bear Proofing

There are many actions you can take year round, but especially in the early spring, to deter bear activity in and around your home. Secure your trash (it's the law)
  • Remove bird feeders

  • Keep BBQs clean

    Bear with Bear-Resistant Container in Alaska
  • Keep pet food indoors

  • Keep garage doors closed

  • Secure windows and doors

  • Be responsible about trash and bird feeders

  • Don’t leave food or trash inside your vehicle

  • Pick fruit before it ripens, clean up fallen fruit

  • Additional tips from Colorado Parks & Wildlife

If a bear comes near your home, yell, blow a whistle, clap your hands, or make other loud noises. Never approach or corner a bear. If the bear remains and you feel it presents a threat, call the non-emergent dispatch line (970-920-5310) or 911 in an emergency.


Updated 2/11/2020 9:44 AM