Urban Wildlife

Feeding Wildlife

To reduce human-wildlife conflicts that result from animals becoming habituated to finding food in neighborhoods, feeding of wildlife is prohibited within city limits. For the full text of the ordinance, you can view Missoula Municipal Code 6.07.12. To report violations, please contact Missoula Animal Services.

Allowed 

  • Bird feeders that can be accessed only by birds and squirrels
  • Ornamental plants
  • Vegetable gardens

Prohibited

  • Bird feeders that can be accessed by bears, deer, raccoons, skunks, and other wildlife
  • Salt licks
  • Grain, hay, and any other food items that may attract wildlife

Bear Buffer Zone

The City of Missoula and Missoula County adopted changes to the bear buffer zone, including the boundary and garbage requirements.  The first two phases are in effect.  Find out if you live in the bear buffer zone here.

Living with Wildlife

Fencing can be an effective way to keep deer out of your yard. Fence regulations are set out in Missoula Municipal Code 12.30 with additional resources available on the fence permit information page. Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks also has good information about making your yard less welcoming for wildlife.

Dead Deer Disposal

  • Republic Services no longer picks up dead deer.  
  • If the deer is located in the middle of the road, or otherwise poses an immediate human safety concern, call 911.
  • To dispose of the deer yourself, you can drop it off free of charge at the Missoula Landfill at 3737 Coal Mine Road between 7:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.
  • There are private contractors that will come and remove the deer for a fee. Story Pest & Wildlife at 550-6108 is a contractor that picks up dead deer.
  • If a deer has been hit by a car and is injured in the roadway, call 911.
  • The City's Street Maintenance Division will pick up dead deer that are in the right-of-way - for instance, at the edge of a street. They are not able to pick up deer carcasses that are on private property, and they cannot pick them up on weekends or holidays. Please call 552-6360 between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. on weekdays or leave a message after hours.