Show All Answers

1. Why is a wildlife and trash ordinance necessary?

Ordinance O-2018-6 was enacted by the City of Durango to help limit the scattering of trash and to prevent bears and other wildlife from accessing neighborhood trash. Each year in our region dozens of bears are killed after interactions or conflicts with humans. In many cases, attraction to trash and food is the root cause of these conflicts. Additionally, scattered trash is a public nuisance, an environmental hazard, and takes up city resources to clean. The ordinance recognizes the responsibility of individual community members to prevent wildlife conflicts and trash scattering by properly securing their trash.

2. How do I obtain a wildlife-resistant residential trash container?

To obtain a wildlife-resistant residential trash container, contact Trash & Recycling at (970) 375-5004. Medium and large wildlife-resistant residential trash containers are available from the City of Durango for a small additional monthly fee.

3. Who do I call to report scattered trash or other littering concerns?

To report scattered trash, or for additional information about the scattered trash and wildlife ordinance, you may contact City of Durango Code Enforcement at (970) 375-4930.

4. Are wildlife-resistant or wildlife-proof containers required in Durango?

Wildlife resistant containers are only required after receiving a wildlife scattering trash violation. Otherwise, wildlife resistant containers are optional, but highly encouraged. These containers significantly reduce the chance that wildlife will get into your trash and therefore reduce the chance you could be fined for scattered trash.

5. Can I request wildlife prevention equipment on my dumpster?

Yes. Waste haulers and the City of Durango can provide commercial wildlife-proof metal dumpsters or replace plastic lids with metal lids and latching mechanisms for an additional monthly service cost. Contact your waste provider for specific charges.

6. Does the wildlife trash ordinance apply to bird feeders?

There are no restrictions on bird feeders. However, it is best to not feed birds from April 15 to November 15. If you do feed birds, it is recommended that you suspend bird feeders at least 10 feet off the ground and 10 feet away from places bears can access. Bird feeders should be brought inside at night and stored in a secure structure, along with any seed or sugar water.

7. Who do I call if I have concerns about a potentially dangerous bear?

If a bear is acting aggressively and is a threat to your safety or property, you should immediately contact Colorado Parks and Wildlife at (970) 247-0855. After hours and weekends, please contact Central Dispatch at (970) 385-2900.