Renter/Visitor Information

Bear Safety in Montreat: Help Keep Wildlife Wild and Our Community Safe

Montreat is a beautiful mountain town—and we share this special place with local wildlife, including black bears. To ensure the safety of both our residents and these animals, we ask all visitors and renters to follow these important guidelines:

Secure Your Trash:
Bears are attracted to food and garbage. All trash should be stored in bear-resistant containers. Do not leave trash bags outside or in vehicles. If your container is full, please use the Montreat Convenience Center to dispose of overflow waste properly.

Lock Doors & Windows:
Bears can enter homes and vehicles looking for food. Always keep doors and windows closed and locked, especially at night or when you are away.

Never Feed Bears (Intentionally or Unintentionally):
Feeding bears, even unintentionally by leaving trash unsecured, puts everyone at risk and encourages bears to return.

Use the Montreat Convenience Center:
Located behind Town Hall, the Convenience Center is available for trash overflow and proper disposal from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. each day. Please use it responsibly to avoid attracting wildlife.

Be Bear Aware:
If you see a bear, keep your distance. Do not approach, follow, or try to photograph the bear up close. Give it space to move away.

By following these simple precautions, you’re helping protect our community—and the bears. Thank you for doing your part to keep Montreat safe and wild!