Potomac bear buffer zone

As of Sept. 1, 2024, bear-resistant garbage containers are now required in the Potomac area. Storing your garbage inside until pickup day is not sufficient, as wildlife managers in the area have reported that bears become habituated to the pickup schedule.

If you use a container from Grizzly Disposal or Republic Services and have trash hauled by them, you do not need to worry about purchasing a bear-resistant container. These haulers will switch out your container to a bear-resistant one soon, if they haven’t already

If you use your own trash can but still have trash hauled by Grizzly Disposal or Republic Services, you will either need to lease a bear-resistant container from your hauler or purchase your own bear-resistant container. The container needs to work with the hauler's equipment. Grizzly Disposal uses Toter containers and Republic Services uses Kodiak containers. Click here for a list of approved containers and be sure to call your hauler before purchasing one. If you purchase your own container and it gets damaged, you will need to replace it. If you lease one from your hauler and it gets damaged, they will replace it.

If you use your own trash can and do not have trash hauled by Grizzly Disposal or Republic Services, be sure to switch your container to a bear-resistant one. These containers must be certified by the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee or approved by a Montana FWP bear management team biologist. You will also need to take your trash to the landfill at least once every seven days.

Click here to view the map of Potomac bear buffer zone.