Volusia County Offers Discounted Bear-Resistant Trash Cans to Unincorporated Residents

Posted On: April 24, 2025

As bears become more active this time of year, Volusia County is encouraging residents to take a simple but effective step in preventing unwanted wildlife encounters—securing their household garbage. To support this effort, the County’s Solid Waste Division is offering a limited number of bear-resistant trash cans to eligible residents in unincorporated areas at a reduced cost of only $66.56.

The Solid Waste Division began offering bear-resistant trash cans in 2017 through Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission BearWise funding, paired with local matching dollars. Since then, eligible residents have been able to purchase the containers at 25% of the actual cost, plus applicable sales tax.

Bear season in Florida typically begins in the spring, when bears emerge from their winter dens and begin actively searching for food. Residential garbage is among the most common attractants, drawing bears into neighborhoods. Once a bear learns that trash is an easy source of food, it’s more likely to return—putting property, people, and the bear itself at risk.

Bear-resistant trash cans are specially designed to help prevent this behavior by withstanding tipping, clawing, and prying. By keeping trash secure, these containers reduce the likelihood of bears lingering in populated areas and help limit conflicts between humans and wildlife. They’re a proven, long-term solution to one of the most avoidable causes of bear encounters.

There are no income restrictions to apply. Supplies are limited, and containers will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. Applications can be requested by calling Volusia County Solid Waste at 386-943-7889.