Trash carts must be bear-resistant, in a locked shed, or inside a garage April 1 to October 31. Carts left curbside overnight in bear zones violate AMC 17.20 and draw fines up to 300 dollars.
Anchorage Municipal Code 17.20 (the Wildlife Attractant Ordinance, AO 2009-82) is among the strictest in the country because of frequent black and brown bear encounters and moose browsing. From April 1 through October 31, garbage carts must be secured in a bear-resistant enclosure or inside a garage except during the active set-out window (morning of collection until retrieval that evening). Recycling carts with food residue are treated the same as trash. Carts should be placed at the curb no earlier than 4:00 AM on collection day and removed by 10:00 PM. The cart must sit within 3 feet of the curb with the handle facing the house and at least 3 feet of clearance on either side for the automated arm. Solid Waste Services sells IGBC-certified bear-resistant carts in 64 and 96 gallon sizes. Bird feeders, pet food, smokers, and freezers also fall under AMC 17.20 as regulated attractants.
Written warning on first offense, 100 dollar fine on second, up to 300 dollars for repeat offenses. Persistent violations after a bear incident may be charged as a Class B misdemeanor under AS 16.05.783.
Anchorage, AK
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