KINGS BEACH, Calif. — Placer County property owners in the Tahoe Basin can receive up to $2,200 to install a bear-resistant garbage can, also known as a bear box.

Grants for installing a bear box on your property will be on a first come first serve basis until funds are depleted or until May 31, 2025, whichever is earlier.

Property owners will be responsible for any installation costs above the $2,200 grant amount.

Funding is made possible through a partnership with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.

How does it work? 

  • Contact Placer County by filling out our online form, emailing bearboxgrant@placer.ca.gov or calling 530-889-6846. 
  • County staff will determine if you are in an eligible area and if funding is still available.
  • Select a bear box from the county’s approved bear box list along with an installer.
  • You and your selected installer will sign and submit the responsibilities sheet to the county before any work happens.  
  • The installer will work with the county throughout the installation. 
  • The installer will invoice the county for up to $2,200 and invoice the property owner for any costs over that amount.

For more information and to get started, visit www.placer.ca.gov/bearboxgrant.