JACKSON, Wyo. — A new wildlife feeding code that requires residential and commercial bear-resistant trash containers or enclosures on the outer edges of town took effect on April 1.
Residents in the designated “bear conflict zone,” outlined below, will be required to store their trash in a bear-resistant can. The “bear conflict zone” refers to the areas within the Town of Jackson that have experienced bears foraging for food in waste containers and other sources at levels that pose a threat to the health, safety and welfare of wildlife, citizens and visitors to the Town.
And yes, the new ordinance will be enforced.
According to Tanya Anderson, ecosystem stewardship coordinator with the Town of Jackson, enforcement will be largely complaint and conflict based. Meaning, if an issue is brought to the attention of a complaint officer, it will be addressed.
“We have a code enforcement officer,” said Anderson. “People would be notified if they are not in compliance and [in the case that] they are, there could be a fine or court date set if they contest it.”
Anderson said that this process is similar to the wildlife feeding regulations of the past. Due to capacity, it is unrealistic for the town to hire someone to enforce the ordinance day to day, but will follow up when the issue comes to the attention of a complaint officer.
“…there won’t be someone driving around, looking at every single container and writing up a ticket.”
Anderson added that waste management companies won’t have a role in enforcement, but rather the responsibility falls on residents to do the right thing and adhere to the new code.
