Asheville Biologist Seeks More Bear-Resistant Cans
A state official asks the city to expand trash security and boost penalties for feeding local bears.
Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Wildlife
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Should your local government increase spending on bear-resistant trash infrastructure to prevent bear-human conflicts?
A state biologist has urged the Asheville City Council to increase funding for bear-resistant trash cans and raise penalties for feeding bears. This request follows a series of initiatives aimed at curbing human-bear interactions in the region.
Why it matters
Reducing access to human-provided food and trash is essential for preventing bears from entering urban areas and minimizing property damage. Buncombe County currently accounts for 38% of all bear-related calls in North Carolina.
Asheville currently has 460 residents on a waitlist for bear-resistant trash cans after receiving 210 units in August. Additionally, there have been more than 140 reported bear-related home break-ins in the county since 2023.
The players
Asheville City Council
This is the governing legislative body for the city of Asheville that decides on municipal budget allocations and local ordinances.
North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission
This state agency is responsible for the management, protection, and regulation of wildlife resources throughout North Carolina.
The details
City officials have reallocated previous fiscal year funding to cover the costs of securing trash and managing bear attractants. An emergency rule prohibiting the feeding of bears in Buncombe County has been in place since October 19.
Timeline
Bear-related home break-ins reached high rates starting in 2023.
Asheville received 210 new trash cans in August 2026.
An emergency rule regarding bear feeding took effect on October 19, 2026.
A public hearing on the feeding rule occurred on October 21, 2026.
The biologist requested funding increases on October 27, 2026.
Culture Shift
This effort reflects a broader shift toward mitigating human-wildlife conflict through stricter urban waste management protocols. By addressing the root cause of bear attraction, the city follows a model set by the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission emergency bear feeding rule.
Residents currently awaiting bear-resistant cans may experience delays in securing property as the city manages a waitlist of 460 people. Community members must also adhere to new feeding prohibitions to avoid potential fines as the city increases its enforcement efforts.
The takeaway
Securing household trash is the most effective way to prevent bears from seeking food in residential areas. Property owners should contact city services to be added to the distribution list for approved containers.
What happens next
Asheville is expected to receive an additional shipment of 210 bear-resistant trash cans between December 2026 and January 2027.
Further reading
Learn more about local efforts to manage regional animal populations in Asheville Wildlife.
Live Poll
Should your local government increase spending on bear-resistant trash infrastructure to prevent bear-human conflicts?
